Combination of anabolic and antiresorptive agents for the treatment of osteoporosis

Maturitas. 2006 Apr 20;54(1):47-54. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2005.08.011. Epub 2005 Oct 27.

Abstract

Combination therapy strategies for osteoporosis are reviewed in this article. Regimens including two antiresorptives agents increase BMD more than single therapy alone, but they have not proved to reduce fracture risk. The alternative of combining antiresorptives together with anabolics has gained more interest. There are, however, many questions still pending, as which antiresorptive should be used, and the appropriate sequence of the treatments. It seems that bisphosphonates can blunt the anabolic effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH) when given simultaneously. Instead, when PTH follows the antiresorptive treatment the anabolic effect seems not to be blunted. Finally, other possible approach would be to initiate therapy with an anabolic agent and maintain the effect with any antiresorptive if necessary.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anabolic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Fractures, Bone / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy*
  • Parathyroid Hormone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anabolic Agents
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents
  • Parathyroid Hormone