Therapies to improve bone mineral density and reduce the risk of fracture: clinical trial results.

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder that is associated with lowered bone mineral density and increased risk of fracture. Numerous clinical trials have been conducted to study drugs and lifestyle changes that can either prevent bone loss in perimenopausal women or prevent fractures in women with established osteoporosis. The role of estrogen alone or in combination with androgen as hormone replacement therapy is discussed for its potential value in osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Additional therapies that are examined for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis include tibolone, bisphosphonates (alendronate and risedronate), selective estrogen-receptor modulators, calcitonin and parathyroid hormone. Experimental therapies that are in different phases of evaluation in osteoporosis management include statins as well as tumor necrosis factor-receptor antagonists. Other strategies include nonpharmacologic interventions, such as calcium supplements, vitamin D and exercise.