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Current and future treatment options in osteoporosis
Linda Brewer1, David Williams2,3, Alan Moore2
1General and Geriatric Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. lindabrewer@physicians.ie.
European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|February 18, 2011
Summary
Osteoporosis fracture risk is rising globally. Current treatments are effective, with new therapies like denosumab offering future options for managing bone health in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Global population aging is increasing osteoporosis-related fractures.
- These fractures pose significant public health and economic challenges.
- Osteoporosis management requires balancing drug efficacy with patient tolerability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current osteoporosis treatments.
- To discuss emerging therapies for osteoporosis.
- To highlight considerations for prescribing in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of anti-fracture data for osteoporosis drugs.
- Discussion of advancements in understanding bone physiology.
- Analysis of novel therapeutic agents.
Main Results:
- Established anti-resorptive and anabolic drugs show efficacy.
- Calcium and vitamin D repletion are crucial.
- New therapies, including denosumab and Wnt signaling agents, are emerging.
Conclusions:
- Current treatments for osteoporosis are supported by robust data.
- Future therapies will expand treatment options.
- Individual patient factors (compliance, comorbidities, frailty) are critical for optimal osteoporosis management.
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