Which of the following effects would be considered a therapeutic effect of a bisphosphonate drug such as etidronate (Didronel)?
a. Alteration in the level of phosphorus in the bloodstream
b. Reduction of the absorption of vitamin D in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract
c. Inhibition of the absorption of calcium in the GI tract
d. Prevention of bone resorption by inhibiting osteoclasts
ANS: D
Bisphosphonates bind to bone crystals to specifically inhibit the activity of osteoclasts, which in turn reduces bone resorption without affecting bone formation. However, since bone formation and resorption come together in the bone turnover process, bone formation does ultimately de-crease.
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