Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in patients with vertebral osteoporotic fractures

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the use of Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with a history of osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Methods: We investigated 119 patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis complicated by one or more non recent vertebral fractures. Results: More than 60% of the patients took at least one dose of NSAID weekly. The most prescribed NSAID was nimesulide, at a dose with an exclusively antalgic effect. Patients with wedge fracture and those with a documented vertebral fracture in the last 12 months were those taking NSAIDs more frequently. 77% of the patients that used NSAIDs had concomitant features of osteoarthritis, mainly at the spine or at the knee. The use of NSAIDs was negatively related to the use of specific therapy for osteoporosis, particularly for oral daily tablets. Conclusions: This study highlights the significant use of NSAIDs in patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures and the overlap between osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and related treatments.