Current and emerging therapies in osteoporosis

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder leading to decreased bone mineralisation and a propensity for fracture. The disease affects millions of people and is a source of significant morbidity and mortality. Fracture-related costs have skyrocketed in recent years and projections suggest an increase as the population ages. Recent advances in the understanding of bone biology have improved the therapeutic options for osteoporosis. This is a review of the osteoporotic therapies that have recently become available and a discussion of emerging options. An overview on current practice guidelines is provided.

• bisphosphonate therapy
• fracture
• osteoporosis
• parathyroid hormone
• raloxifene