New jab can rebuild crumbly bones and reduce fractures

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 (known as Forsteo in the UK) 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, but the new drug may be cheaper (Forsteo costs £300 a month).