摘要

Authors' objectives: BACKGROUND: Zoledronate, ibandronate, and denosumab are licensed bone-targeting agents (BTAs) in Switzerland. Patients with bone metastases are treated monthly with BTAs to reduce fracture risk and hypercalcaemia. Long-term exposure to BTAs is linked to possible severe side effects such as hypocalcaemia, renal failure, or cumulative risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Recent studies suggest that reduced treatment frequency is as efficacious as the current monthly therapy. Consequently, the question arises as to whether the monthly administration of BTAs in patients with bone metastases should be replaced by a 3-monthly administration. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this health technology assessment (HTA) was to assess the evidence pertaining to 3-monthly versus 1-monthly administration of BTAs in cancer patients with bone metastases in terms of efficacy, effectiveness, and safety, as well as cost, cost-effectiveness, budget impact, legal, social, ethical, and organisational issues.