Pharmacology · single question
Bisphosphonates exert their effect primarily on which cell type?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Osteoclasts (inducing apoptosis and inhibiting bone resorption)
Bisphosphonates bind hydroxyapatite in bone and are taken up by osteoclasts during resorption, where they disrupt the mevalonate pathway and induce osteoclast apoptosis — this potently inhibits bone resorption, which is therapeutic for osteoporosis/bone metastases but also underlies the risk of MRONJ.