Characteristics of patients initiating raloxifene compared to those initiating bisphosphonates.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Both raloxifene and bisphosphonates are indicated for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, however these medications have different efficacy and safety profiles. It is plausible that physicians would prescribe these agents to optimize the benefit/risk profile for individual patients. The objective of this study was to compare demographic and clinical characteristics of patients initiating raloxifene with those of patients initiating bisphosphonates for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Methods

This study was conducted using a retrospective cohort design. Female beneficiaries (45 years and older) with at least one claim for raloxifene or a bisphosphonate in 2003 through 2005 and continuous enrollment in the previous 12 months and

SUBMITTER: Foster SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2642779 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature