[Influence of shenxu gutong capsule on femoral inorganic elements content and ash weight in rats].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the mechanism of Shenxu Gutong Capsule (SXGTC) in treating postmenopausal osteoporosis.

METHODS

Using ovariectomized rats as the model of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the effect of SXGTC on inorganic element content of femur and femoral ash weight of the model rats were surveyed. Animals were divided into model group, SXGTC high dose group, SXGTC low dose group, positive control group (treated with Gushukang) and normal control group. The medication began at one week after operation and lasting for 120 days.

RESULTS

The contents of inorganic elements, including Ca, P, Mg, Zn, Cu and Mn in the three medicated groups were higher than those of the model group (P < 0.01). The effect of SXGTC was dose dependent. The difference between the SXGTC groups and the positive control group was insignificant. The femoral ash weight of the SXGTC high dose group and the positive control group was significantly higher than that of the model group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

SXGTC could antagonize the rat's bony change caused by ovariectomy to increase the inorganic contents in bone, which may, in grneral, lead to a bone-strengthening effect.