Recommendation ID
NG35/5
Question

Bisphosphonates for the prevention of bone disease:- What is the effectiveness of monthly zoledronic acid given indefinitely compared with zoledronic acid given for a fixed duration in patients with myeloma?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Why this is important:- There is good-quality evidence to support the use of zoledronic acid to prevent bone disease in people with myeloma. However, the optimal frequency and duration of treatment is not clearly defined and needs further research, particularly given the quality-of-life implications for people needing regular, life-long visits to hospital. This study should be a randomised controlled trial.
Outcomes of interest are skeletal-related events, progression-free survival, overall survival, utility of bone biomarkers, incidence of osteonecrosis of the jaw, quality of life and resource use.


Source guidance details

Comes from guidance
Myeloma: diagnosis and management
Number
NG35
Date issued
February 2016

Other details

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research? No  
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?   No  
Last Reviewed 29/02/2016