The long-term use of thiazolidinediones, a class of drugs used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has been found to double a woman's risk of fracture.

Researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) in the UK and Wake Forest University found that use of thiazolidinediones for more than one year by women with type 2 diabetes significantly reduces bone density and doubles their risk of fracture. No increase in fracture risk was observed in men.

"Women with type 2 diabetes are already at an increased risk of fractures - with a near doubling in the risk of hip fractures - so any additional risk from thiazolidinedione therapy could have a considerable impact on public health," said lead author Dr Yoon Loke in a news release. Dr Loke recommends that patients should not stop or change their treatment suddenly without consulting their doctor, and that women who have been taking thiazolidinediones for more than a year should discuss other treatment options with their doctor.

Long-term use of thiazolidinediones and fractures in type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis. CMAJ. Early release published on December 10th 2008. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.080486

News release: Long-term use of diabetes drugs by women significantly increases risk of fractures. University of East Anglia. december 10th 2008