Current treatment of osteoporosis

• Main Author: Subramanian Nallasivan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2019-01-01
• Series: Indian Journal of Rheumatology
• Subjects: Abaloparatide; bisphosphonate; denosumab; osteoporosis; teriparatide
• Online Access: http://www.indianjrheumatol.com/article.asp?issn=0973-3698;year=2019;volume=14;issue=1;spage=57;epage=60;aulast=Nallasivan

Osteoporosis is ever increasing as life expectancy continues to increase across the world. Hypovitaminosis D has been found to be prevalent even in children and adults, and hence, it is imperative to educate the public on the nutrition for bone health. “Love your bones and joints” was the slogan by the World Health Organization to increase the awareness among the public. Bone density is assessed by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry scan and the T score system. Although biomarkers have been studied in research, their clinical utility is still elusive. Regular exercise and adequate intake of Calcium and Vitamin D are important to maintain bone health. Bisphosphonates are the first line drugs in the management of osteoporosis both for primary and secondary prophylaxis. Second-line drugs include denosumab, teriparatide, and newer drugs such as abaloparatide, romosozumab, and calcitonin, which have found more real-life acceptance and efficacious in the long-term management of osteoporosis. Romosozumab, a monoclonal antibody may well become the ideal osteoporosis drug with effects on bone formation and resorption. Surgical treatment choices include – Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are being accepted in specific instances and selected centers with variable success.