Treatment/ Innovation
Treatment options typically include calcium and vitamin D supplements, and one of the following for a short course: bisphosphonates (like alendronate), teriparatide and parathyroid hormone, raloxifene, calcitonin, denosumab , strontium ranelate, hormone replacement therapy or the latest FDA approved treatment, Romosozumab (Evenity). Romosozumab is a human monoclonal antibody directed against sclerostin. In phase 3 trials it was shown to prevent more fractures in postmenopausal women than placebo, alendronate or teriparatide. It was also effective in increasing bone mineral density in men. Romosozumab leads to both an increase in bone formation and a decrease in bone resorption in the first months of treatment. Some concerns were raised however about cardiovascular events so although very effective, at this time, it’s use is limited to postmenopausal women with severe osteoporosis and high fracture risk without a history of heart attack or stroke.
