New Approaches to the Treatment of Osteoporosis

The document from 2000 reviews emerging treatments for osteoporosis, emphasizing the need for therapies that not only reduce bone resorption but also promote bone formation. It discusses the effectiveness of low-dose hormone replacement therapy, selective estrogen receptor modulators like raloxifene, and bisphosphonates such as alendronate and risedronate in increasing bone mineral density and reducing fracture risk. The paper also explores the potential of selective androgen receptor modulators, parathyroid hormone analogs, statins, and oxytocin analogs to stimulate bone growth. It notes that combination therapies can be more effective than single treatments, and highlights the importance of developing treatments that offer cardiovascular and bone protection while minimizing side effects. The document concludes that while current treatments focus on reducing bone resorption, future therapies should aim to increase bone formation, with several promising candidates identified.