Risk for Hip Fracture due to Alpha Blocker Treatment in Korean Women: National Health Insurance Database Study

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to evaluate the risk for hip fracture associated with adverse drug reactions caused by 1-adrenergic (alpha) blockers to treat female voiding dysfunction. MethodsInformation from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2012 was used. Hip fracture women patients who received a prescription for an alpha blocker due to voiding dysfunction were the cases. A 30-day hazard period after administration of an alpha blocker was set. The 30-day control period was defined as 360days before administration. The standardized incidence ratio and hazard ratio for the risk of hip bone fracture as related to alpha blocker use were analyzed. ResultsThe study cohort included 287383 subjects having a mean age of 65.19.7years in the study cohort. A total of 170 and 79 hip fracture cases were diagnosed in the hazard period and control period, respectively. The incidence of newly diagnosed hip fractures per 100000 person-years was 763.4 in the hazard period and 348.5 in the control period. The hazard ratio for hip fracture after use of an alpha blocker was 2.19 (95% confidence interval, 1.74-2.77). ConclusionsAlpha blockers to treat voiding dysfunction may have association with the risk for hip fracture in elderly women.