New jab for bone health

A NEW drug that helps to rebuild bone might be more effective for osteoporosis than the standard treatment, say researchers.

In a clinical trial by the manufacturer, four of 800 patients with osteoporosis had a spine fracture while taking the new drug – abaloparatide – after 18 months compared with six taking a standard treatment, Forteo.

Drugs such as Forteo and abaloparatide contain a synthetic version of parathyroid, which is a hormone produced in the body that causes bones to release calcium into the bloodstream.

The calcium then “fills” holes in weakened bones.

Both drugs are given via a daily jab.