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Updated: Aug 14, 2026
Estrogen-Like Effect of Bazi Bushen Capsule in Ovariectomized Rats
Published on: April 7, 2023
Treatment of osteoporosis
1Department of Internal Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Abstract:
No new compounds were tested in 1991, but more results on available therapeutic options were accumulated. Bisphosphonates and calcitonins appeared to increase bone density when used for a period of 1 to 3 years and to decrease vertebral fracture rate. Estrogen replacement therapy is still the most effective prevention of postmenopausal bone loss. Various studies revealed that the risk of inducing breast cancer has not been established and that estrogen has a strong protective effect against cardiovascular mortality. Screening for osteoporosis at menopause to target estrogen replacement therapy to women at increased fracture risk is recommended. Calcium and vitamin D supplements proved to be of significant value, especially in elderly people, in whom they even decreased fracture incidence. Fluoride demonstrated variable bioavailability. This might explain why certain fluoride studies showed fast increases in bone density with heavy side effects but no effect on fracture rate, whereas fluoride preparations of lower bioavailability were better tolerated and decreased fracture incidence. For almost all drugs, some dose dependence was demonstrated and maximally tolerated doses were established, but minimal effective doses are still unknown. Vertebral fracture rate was more often included as the final criterion in therapeutic trials, whereas long-term effects on hip fracture incidence still need more attention.
Insights
Bisphosphonates, calcitonins, and estrogen replacement therapy can increase bone density and reduce fractures. Calcium, vitamin D, and certain fluoride treatments also show promise for fracture prevention, especially in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Osteoporosis management involves evaluating available therapeutic options.
- Bone density and fracture rates are key indicators of treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review accumulated results on therapeutic options for bone density and fracture prevention.
- To assess the effectiveness and safety of various osteoporosis treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of accumulated data on bisphosphonates, calcitonins, estrogen replacement therapy, calcium, vitamin D, and fluoride.
- Analysis of studies focusing on bone density changes and fracture rates (vertebral and hip).
Main Results:
- Bisphosphonates and calcitonins increased bone density and decreased vertebral fracture rates over 1-3 years.
- Estrogen replacement therapy remains effective for postmenopausal bone loss prevention with cardiovascular benefits.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements significantly decreased fracture incidence, particularly in the elderly.
- Fluoride's efficacy varied, with lower bioavailability preparations showing better fracture reduction and tolerability.
Conclusions:
- Estrogen replacement therapy is recommended for screening at menopause for women at high fracture risk.
- Calcium, vitamin D, and specific fluoride preparations are valuable adjuncts for fracture prevention.
- Further research is needed on long-term hip fracture incidence and minimal effective doses for osteoporosis therapies.
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