Effectiveness of bisphosphonates on bone pain and quality of life in breast cancer patients with metastatic bone disease: a review

Abstract

Introduction: Almost all patients with breast cancer and bone metastases suffer bone pain. Many receive bisphosphonate therapy only when the pain becomes unbearable or there is a direct threat of skeletal complications.

Discussion: However, clinical trial data demonstrate that bisphosphonates offer significant and sustained relief from bone pain and can also improve quality of life in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Conclusion: Moreover, new treatment schedules using high dose bisphosphonates can offer rapid relief of acute, severe bone pain.