Sarcopenia: pharmacology of today and tomorrow

J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2012 Dec;343(3):540-6. doi: 10.1124/jpet.112.191759. Epub 2012 Aug 28.

Abstract

Sarcopenia remains largely undiagnosed and undertreated because of the lack of a universally accepted definition, effective ways to measure it, and identification of the outcomes that should guide treatment efficacy. An ever-growing number of clinicians and researchers along with funding and regulatory agencies have gradually recognized that sarcopenia is a human condition that requires both prevention and treatment. In this article, we review sarcopenia and its common and less known pharmacological treatments, attempt to define sarcopenia in its broader context, and present some new ideas for potential future treatment for this devastating condition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging* / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Diet
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength / physiology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / drug effects
  • Muscle, Skeletal / growth & development
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiopathology*
  • Resistance Training
  • Sarcopenia / drug therapy*
  • Sarcopenia / etiology
  • Sarcopenia / metabolism
  • Sarcopenia / physiopathology