Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
A Novel in vivo Gene Transfer Technique and in vitro Cell Based Assays for the Study of Bone Loss in Musculoskeletal Disorders
Published on: June 8, 2014
Guidelines for treatment of osteoporosis in men
T Diamond1, P Sambrook, M Williamson
1University of New South Wales, St George Hospital, New South Wales. terrydiamond@optushome.com.au
Insights
Osteoporosis management in men requires assessing coexisting conditions. Alendronate is recommended for osteoporosis and fractures, with testosterone replacement for hypogonadal men.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Geriatrics
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Osteoporosis poses significant health risks in men, including morbidity and mortality.
- Limited randomized controlled trials exist for male osteoporosis therapies, necessitating guideline development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish evidence-based treatment guidelines for osteoporosis in men.
Main Methods:
- Review of available randomized controlled trials and clinical data.
- Synthesis of evidence to inform treatment recommendations.
Main Results:
- Coexisting medical conditions are present in 30-60% of men with spinal fractures, impacting bone health.
- Primary fracture prevention and secondary fracture prevention are both critical.
Conclusions:
- Alendronate is the primary treatment for men with osteoporosis and fractures.
- Cyclical etidronate is a viable alternative; testosterone replacement is indicated for hypogonadal men.
Background:
Osteoporosis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in men. Published randomised controlled trials assessing the benefits of therapy in men with osteoporosis are limited, but those available need to be used to develop management guidelines.
Objective:
To present evidence based guidelines for the treatment of osteoporosis in men.
Discussion:
It is estimated that 30-60% of men presenting with spinal fractures have another illness contributing to their bone disease. Therefore assessment and treatment of coexisting medical conditions is a vital part of management of osteoporosis. While primary prevention of fractures remains crucial, treatment to ensure further fractures do not occur is equally important. Alendronate is the treatment of choice for men with osteoporosis and fractures, with cyclical etidronate an appropriate alternative and testosterone replacement therapy is indicated in hypogonadal men presenting with osteoporosis.
Related Concept Videos
01:40Bone Remodeling
01:31Osteoclasts in Bone Remodeling
01:29Bone Disorders
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
01:31Essential Minerals for Bone Health
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
01:25Role of Vitamins in Maintaining Bone Health
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is involved in the process of bone remodeling. Retinoic acid, the active metabolite of Vitamin A, has nuclear receptors in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which are involved in bone remodeling.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor during the formation of osteoblast-related proteins, such as osteocalcin. Vitamin B12 plays a role...
01:20Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...