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THIS STUDY analyzed data on 1,685 women, most in their 70s. About 5 percent of the women were taking Fosamax (alendronate), a bisphosphonate, or had taken it at some time, and 719 of them had received a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm. Women who had ever taken the drug were nearly twice as likely to have the heartbeat problem as were those who had never taken the medication.
WHO MAY BE AFFECTED? Older women taking Fosamax, generally to stave off the consequences of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed drugs for this purpose.
CAVEATS Whether the findings apply to other bisphosphonates or to men was not determined.
FIND THIS STUDY April 28 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
-- Linda Searing
The research described in Quick Study comes from credible, peer-reviewed journals. Nonetheless, conclusive evidence about a treatment's effectiveness is rarely found in a single study. Anyone considering changing or beginning treatment of any kind should consult with a physician.
