Bone targeting agents: bisphosphonates

Malignant tumor osteolysis is a frequent complication in many cancers. It can cause skeletal-related events with alteration of quality of life and survival. Bisphosphonates play an important role in the management of this malignant osteolysis, via an inhibition of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, and a potential direct antitumor activity. Their use constitutes an important therapeutic advance in patients with bone metastases so as to reduce or delay the appearance of these skeletal events. They are also useful for the treatment of hypercalcemia, which could arise in these patients. Their interest as adjuvant therapy before the onset of bone metastases is currently being evaluated.