Current approaches to osteoporosis treatment

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rheumatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone strength and increased fracture risk.
• Advances in bone biology have driven significant therapeutic progress in osteoporosis management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current osteoporosis treatment approaches.
• To highlight issues relevant to practicing rheumatologists in managing osteoporosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent therapeutic advances in osteoporosis.
• Analysis of new agents and treatment strategies.
• Consideration of safety surveillance data.

Main Results:

• New agents like denosumab, teriparatide, selective estrogen-receptor modulators, romosozumab, and odanacatib have emerged.
• Treatment individualization, combination therapy, and goal-based approaches are now possible.
• Bisphosphonate use is associated with risks like osteonecrosis of the jaw and atypical femoral fractures, necessitating drug holidays.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in understanding and managing osteoporosis.
• Rheumatologists must stay informed about current osteoporosis management strategies due to their frequent encounter with bone-loss-related conditions.