Osteoporosis drug study shows promising results
A Canadian study has shown promising results for the prevention of bone loss in osteoporosis patients receiving corticosteroid therapy. From a placebo-controlled study of 141 patients at McMaster University (Hamilton, Ontario), in which half received the drug etidronate (Didronel) followed by calcium during a year’s time, new vertebral fractures in the post-menopausal patients were reduced by 85% compared with patients on placebo, while overall patient group reduction was almost 50%, according to the research.
Etidronate was given in four cycles during the study, and researchers also noted a small increase in bone density in some cases. Researchers also say the therapy was well tolerated overall, and a follow-up study is being planned.
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