[Treatment of osteoporosis with parathyroid hormone].

BACKGROUND

Until recently, antiresorptive therapy has been the only treatment of osteoporosis. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) represents a new treatment principle. PTH given intermittently stimulates the osteoblasts and bone formation. We here present the effect of PTH on bone metabolism, bone mineral density and fracture reduction, and discuss the role of PTH in osteoporosis treatment.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

The article is based on literature retrieved from Pubmed/Medline and on own experience from participation in multicentre studies.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: Treatment with PTH stimulates bone formation and causes a more pronounced increase in bone mineral density than bisphosphonates and results in a significant reduction of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. The treatment is very expensive, and is therefore used and reimbursed restrictively.