Comparative Assessment Of Health-Related Quality Of Life In Osteoporosis Patients Treated With Teriparatide Versus Zoledronic Acid: A Prospective, Observational Study Using The OPAQ-SV Questionnaire

Background Osteoporosis significantly impacts health-related quality of life (HRQOL), particularly in the elderly and postmenopausal women. While multiple pharmacologic options are available, their comparative impact on HRQOL remains under-investigated in Indian clinical settings. Objective To assess longitudinal changes in HRQOL using the Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire - Short Version (OPAQ-SV) among osteoporosis patients treated with Teriparatide or Zoledronic Acid in a tertiary care hospital. Methods An open-label, prospective, observational study was conducted over 52 weeks involving 80 osteoporosis patients. Participants were allocated to receive either Teriparatide (daily subcutaneous injection) or Zoledronic Acid (yearly intravenous infusion). HRQOL was measured using OPAQ-SV at baseline, 13, 26, and 52 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests to assess intra-group changes. Results At baseline, the mean HRQOL score was 90.12 ± 17.45. Significant improvements were observed in both treatment arms at all timepoints (p < 0.0001). By week 52, Teriparatide-treated patients exhibited a greater increase in HRQOL (117.97 ± 17.58) compared to those treated with Zoledronic Acid (105.64 ± 16.37). The greatest improvements were noted in physical functioning and emotional status domains. Conclusion Both Teriparatide and Zoledronic Acid significantly improved HRQOL over time. However, Teriparatide demonstrated a more robust improvement, particularly in physical and emotional well-being. These findings support Teriparatide’s preferential use in HRQOL-focused osteoporosis management strategies.