Alendronate protects against articular cartilage erosion by inhibiting subchondral bone loss in ovariectomized rats

► Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are major health problems in the elderly population, particularly in postmenopausal women, but their relationship remains unclear. ► Early ALN treatment completely prevented both subchondral bone loss and cartilage surface erosion caused by OVX. ► Late ALN treatment inhibited subchondral bone loss and significantly reduced cartilage erosion, although they did not recover to normal levels. ► Treatment for OP with bone resorption inhibitors reduces cartilage degeneration when menopause-related OP and OA coexist in same individuals.