OBJECTIVES:

I. Determine the efficacy of alendronate sodium in treating osteopenia (generalized bone density and focal bone lesions) in patients with Gaucher's disease.

PROTOCOL OUTLINE:

This is a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study.

All patients receive oral calcium carbonate and cholecalciferol daily. Patients are randomized to receive oral alendronate sodium or placebo daily for 24 months.

Patients are followed every 6 months for 2 years.

Completion date provided represents the completion date of the grant per OOPD records

PROTOCOL ENTRY CRITERIA:

--Disease Characteristics--

Diagnosis of type 1 Gaucher's disease enzymatically proven to have acid beta glucosidase deficiency

Must have been on stable dose (8-60 U/kg/every 2 weeks) of alglucerase enzyme therapy (Cerezyme or Ceredase) for at least 24 months

Lumbar spine bone density below the mean for age, sex, and race

--Prior/Concurrent Therapy--

At least 6 months since prior medications that directly affect skeletal metabolism including, but not limited to, bisphosphonates, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone, or estrogen

--Patient Characteristics--

Renal: No chronic renal failure; No recurrent renal stones

Esophageal: No history of dysphagia; No frequent heartburn; No esophagitis requiring treatment

Other: No untreated hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism; No concurrent hyperparathyroidism; No concurrent malignancy; No history of alcohol or drug abuse; Not pregnant; Negative pregnancy test; Fertile patients must use effective contraception