Advertisement
VIDEO: Breakthrough drug may make life easier for osteoporosis sufferers
According to the Surgeon General, half of all women over the age of 50 will break a bone in their lifetime from osteoporosis.
Currently, drugs such as Fosamax, Actonel and Boniva are the first-line treatments for protecting bones.
Taken by pill either once a week or once a month, the medications work well but come with hard-to-follow instructions that prohibit eating, drinking or lying down for at least 30 minutes.
Today, researchers report that new options are in the works.
A study of over 7,500 postmenopausal women finds that a simple yearly IV infusion of the drug Zometa, also known as Reclast, can reduce spine fractures by 70 percent and hip fractures by 41 percent over a three-year period.
While direct comparisons have yet to be made, experts agree that once-a-year infusions of Zometa appear to be just as effective as current treatments for osteoporosis and could make life easier for the many osteoporosis sufferers.
However, some heart rhythm problems were seen and more studies need to be performed to ensure the drug's safety before it can be offered widely.
More like this
- Researchers examine drug to help fight bone disease July 17, 2006
- New Lawrence team forms to promote bone health, prevent hip fractures December 7, 2009
- Doctor: Osteoporosis should be a concern for women who smoke, drink heavily December 7, 2006
- Popular diabetes drug may lead to brittle bones December 3, 2007
- Dental x-rays could aid in diagnosis of osteoporosis March 26, 2007
Neighbors say Denison boy was accidentally shot and killed by his friend March 20, 2010
Snowy weather making travel dangerous March 19, 2010
Two days after rally, republican lawmakers present budget with more education cuts March 19, 2010
County says road complaints are up in Auburn Twp. March 19, 2010
Riley Co. launches new Web site March 19, 2010
Comments
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.