Osteoporosis.
Last updated Monday, December 27, 2004
ResearchIs there research studying how to cure, prevent, or treat osteoporosis? Is there research studying the causes, mechanisms, or risk factors of osteoporosis? Researchers
are studying other treatments for osteoporosis. Some treatments are
already being used in other countries. However, they have not been
approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration as
treatments for osteoporosis.
Vitamin D is produced by the body in response to exposure to
sunlight. It increases the amount of calcium that your body absorbs
from the intestines, which is especially important in older people. One
study showed that calcitriol, a powerful, hormonal form of Vitamin D
prescribed by doctors, decreased fracture rates in women. Vitamin D can
be toxic if taken in too large an amount--100 to 1000 times the
recommended dose--and may lead to serious side effects, including
kidney damage and high blood pressure.
Bisphosphorlates are compounds which have been found to decrease
bone loss. Examples of bisphosphonates are alendronate, etidronate,
clodronate, pamidronate, and tiludronate. They are being tested in the
treatment of osteoporosis.
Calcitonin, in a nose spray form, is being studied as a treatment.
Sodium fluoride promotes new bone growth, but may not reduce the
risk of fracture. The new bone which is formed may be weaker. However,
new forms of this drug are being tested.
New methods are being developed to detect and treat osteoporosis.
Your doctor is the best guide to finding the right treatment for you. Surgery for Osteoporosis at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.
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