Prevention of Steroid-Induced Osteoporosis in Children
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to determine whether the drug pamidronate can safely and effectively improve bone mineral density in growing children who have bone disease caused by taking steroid medications. People who take steroid medications called glucocorticoids, like prednisone or dexamethasone, for long periods almost always have decreased bone density and are at increased risk of breaking a bone. Research has shown that pamidronate improves bone density in adults who take glucocorticoids. However, use of pamidronate is not approved in children because it has not been extensively tested in children. It is possible that children will have a different response or unique problems with the medication because their bones are still growing. We will assign all study participants to one of two groups. One group will receive pamidronate intravenously (through a vein) every 3 months in addition of daily oral calcium and vitamin D and the other group will receive calcium and vitamin D. The study is scheduled to run for 36 months, with visits to the study center once every 3 months.
Conditions: Osteoporosis.
Primary outcome: Lumbar spine BMD determined by DEXA.
Enrollment: 40 participants.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a clinical trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 40 participants or records.
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