How does alendronate increase bone density in patients with osteoporosis?

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate that primarily works by suppressing the function of osteoclasts, which are the cells responsible for bone resorption. In osteoporosis, there is an imbalance in bone remodeling, where bone resorption by osteoclasts exceeds bone formation by osteoblasts. By inhibiting osteoclast activity, alendronate reduces the rate of bone loss and allows for improved bone density over time.

This action helps to maintain and even increase the density of bone, making it less susceptible to fractures. The effectiveness of alendronate in inhibiting osteoclasts is a critical factor in the treatment of osteoporosis, as it directly addresses the pathophysiological mechanism responsible for the condition.