A new study reveals that a single zoledronate infusion every five to 10 years can significantly reduce fracture risks in women aged 50 to 60.

Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the 10-year trial followed more than 1000 postmenopausal women and tested the efficacy of zoledronate, a bisphosphonate commonly used to treat osteoporosis.

Researchers found that one or two infusions of the drug reduced vertebral fractures by 41 to 44% and all fractures by 23 to 30%.

“At the moment, our strategy to prevent fractures is to wait until people are at high risk,” Associate Professor Mark Bolland, from Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, said.

“This study shows an alternative: start treatment early to preserve bone density and reduce fracture risks later in life.”

The trial participants were divided into three groups: one received a single zoledronate infusion, another had two infusions five years apart, and the last received a placebo.

Neither the women nor the clinicians knew the group assignments.

Treating 21 women with two infusions or 22 with a single infusion prevented one vertebral fracture.

Zoledronate, which costs around $20 per dose and $100–$150 for an infusion, was found to be safe for long-term use.

Its infrequent dosing schedule makes it a practical option for younger postmenopausal women who may be unwilling to take daily medications for decades.

“When zoledronate was introduced, people doubted it could last a year. Now, we’ve shown it can last five to 10 years,” Bolland said.

“This approach could allow women to maintain their bone density and significantly lower fracture risks with just a few infusions in their lifetime.”

The findings challenge the current practice of delaying treatment until women are at high fracture risk due to age, low bone density, or previous fractures.

Instead, early intervention could prevent the age-related bone loss that leads to fractures later.

Researchers are optimistic about the potential long-term benefits of this strategy and are conducting an extension study to confirm its efficacy beyond the initial decade.

With zoledronate widely available and affordable, experts suggest women in their 50s and 60s discuss this preventative option with their doctors.