The first drug to enhance bone formation and lower breakdown: romosozumab

Osteoporosis drug romosozumab has a dual effect on bone tissue reveals new research in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. Newly available in the US, romosozumab was found to increase markers of bone formation and decreases those of bone breakdown in a study of 107 people with osteoporosis. This is associated with an increased bone mineral density and a reduced risk of fracture.

However, the European Medicines Agency Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use has adopted a negative opinion drug which means it will not be available in the UK any time soon. Claire Severgnini, the chief executive officer of the Royal Osteoporosis Society, comments:

“Romosozumab has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the US, the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency as well as for Canada, so while the Royal Osteoporosis Society fully respects the decision made by the European Medicines Agency’s CHMP, it is disappointing that this hope of a highly effective drug which would benefit patients with very high fracture risk has not been approved.

“We recognise the medication may not be suitable for all people. However, given it would only be available through a specialist clinician, many people could potentially benefit from this innovative new treatment.”

For advice about osteoporosis contact the Royal Osteoporosis Society: www.theros.org.uk or tel 0808 800 0035.

Arthritis Digest Magazine was selected by Feedspot as one of the Top 5 Arthritis Blogs on the internet in 2018.

For more in-depth features, interviews and information, subscribe to Arthritis Digest magazine, a popular title that’s published six times a year. Click here for the digital version or tel 0845 643 8470 to order your had copy. You’ll know what your doctor is talking about, what new drugs are in the pipeline and be up to date on helpful products.