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Osteoporosis

Description

An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of osteoporosis.


Highlights

Drug Approvals

Investigational Drugs

A once-yearly bisphosphonate drug, administered in a 15-minute intravenous infusion, may be the next new osteoporosis treatment. Encouraging Phase III results for Reclast were presented at the 2006 meeting of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Osteonecrosis (bone decay) in the jaw is a rare side effect of bisphosphonate drugs. It has mostly occurred in patients who received intravenous bisphosphonates, but there have been a few cases in people who took oral bisphosphonates. Talk to your doctor if you have signs of jaw or gum discomfort.

Calcium Supplements for Osteoporosis Prevention

Calcium and vitamin supplements do not have major benefits for osteoporosis prevention, according to a landmark Women’s Health Initiative clinical trial. The 2006 study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine , found that the supplements provide only modest protection for hip fractures and bone loss, and may increase the risk of kidney stones. Doctors have different opinions about whether women should continue to take supplements.

Bone Density Screening


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