MeReC Bulletin tackles management of osteoporosis
The latest issue of the MeReC Bulletin considers
issues surrounding the management of osteoporosis, including the treatment
of men with osteoporosis and the treatment of corticosteroid-induced osteoarthritis
(2001;12:5).
The bulletin concludes that there is little evidence
to help determine the best drug treatment for osteoarthritis in men but
says that there is no suggestion that men should respond to treatment
any differently from women. It says that there is some evidence that the
bisphosphonates etidronate and alendronate can increase bone mineral density
in men and that a combination of calcium and vitamin D may be of benefit
in older men.
For corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis, the bulletin
recommends that bisphosphonates are used first. It adds that hormone replacement
therapy (HRT) might be appropriate for women who do not tolerate bisphosphonates
but notes that there is little evidence to suggest that HRT affects fracture
rates. Other issues considered by the bulletin include the measurement
and interpretation of bone mineral density and the prevention of falls.
The bulletin is included with The Journal
sent to pharmacists in England and Wales this week.
Back to Top
|
