Anabolic effects of fluoride on bone

Area of Science:

• Bone biology and osteoporosis treatment.
• Pharmacology of fluoride compounds.

Background:

• Fluoride exhibits a biphasic effect on bone health, influencing osteoblasts, bone mineral, and overall bone structure.
• Low fluoride concentrations are beneficial for bone, while higher concentrations can lead to impaired bone mineralization and quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a novel therapeutic approach for postmenopausal osteoporosis using fluoride.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of an intermittent slow-release sodium fluoride (SR-NaF) regimen combined with calcium citrate.

Main Methods:

• The study explores the dual action of fluoride on bone metabolism and mineralization.
• A new treatment protocol involving intermittent slow-release sodium fluoride (SR-NaF) and continuous calcium citrate was designed.

Main Results:

• Low fluoride levels promote beneficial skeletal effects.
• High fluoride levels and uptake can result in abnormally mineralized bone with compromised quality.
• The proposed SR-NaF regimen aims to harness fluoride's therapeutic potential while mitigating adverse effects.

Conclusions:

• Intermittent slow-release sodium fluoride (SR-NaF) with calcium citrate presents a promising strategy for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis.
• This approach may achieve therapeutic efficacy by optimizing fluoride delivery and minimizing toxic effects on bone quality.