Purpose of review: Bone-modifying agents have an important role in the treatment of patients with bone mineral density loss, early-stage breast cancer to reduce risk of recurrence, and metastatic breast cancer with bone involvement. Here we review mechanisms of action of these agents and clinical indications for their use.
Recent findings: The meta-analysis undertaken by the Early Breast Cancer Trialists' Collaborative Group showed that the use of bisphosphonates was associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer recurrence.
Summary: The effect of bisphosphonates and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand inhibitors on bone health provides an opportunity to decrease the incidence of skeletal-related events and improve cancer outcomes in certain subsets of patients.
Keywords: Bone-modifying agents; Breast cancer; Denosumab; Zoledronic acid.