A new therapy for osteoporosis: Romosozumab

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become porous (less dense) and weaker. It affects 10 million people in the United States: approximately eight million women and two million men. As bone weakens, people are more likely to experience fractures, especially in the spine, hip, and forearm. This causes pain, diminishes a person’s ability to function, and reduces quality of life. Anything that can lower the risk of osteoporosis and fractures has major positive public health implications. That’s why a new drug called romosozumab is getting a lot of attention. Which medications can help treat osteoporosis? There are currently several medications available to treat osteoporosis. These include medications that block the breakdown of bone (anti-resorptive therapies). Examples include bisphosphonates such as alendronate (Fosamax), which is a pill, and zoledronate (Reclast), which is given intravenously. Other types of anti-resorptive agents include raloxifene (Evista) and denosumab (Prolia). enhance the formation of bone (anabolic therapies). Examples include teriparatide (Forteo) and abaloparatide (Tymlos). Now, for the first time since 2010, a new class of medication is available to treat osteoporosis. Romosozumab (Evenity) is in a class called sclerostin inhibitors and is considered an anabolic agent. Sclerostin is a protein that helps regulate bone metabolism. Produced by osteocytes (bone cells), it inhibits bone formation (making new bone). Romosozumab binds sclerosti...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Bones and joints Menopause Osteoporosis Women's Health Source Type: blogs