The recent recommendation by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) of abaloparatide (Eladynos) for treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women marks a significant development in bone health management. As the founder and lead consultant at the London Osteoporosis Clinic, I believe this new treatment option can benefit some patients. Still, it’s crucial to understand its place within a comprehensive approach to bone health.
Understanding Abaloparatide
Abaloparatide is an anabolic drug that stimulates new bone formation, similar to the existing medication teriparatide. NICE has recommended it as an option for treating osteoporosis after menopause in women, trans men, and non-binary people assigned female at birth, but only for those at very high risk of fracture.
Key points about abaloparatide:
- It’s positioned as an alternative to romosozumab or teriparatide for people with very high fracture risk.
- Clinical trials show it’s more effective than placebo at reducing fracture risk when followed by alendronic acid.
- It can be taken for 18 months, compared to 24 months for teriparatide and 12 months for romosozumab.
- NICE considers it a cost-effective use of NHS resources.
Our Perspective at the London Osteoporosis Clinic
While we welcome the addition of abaloparatide to our treatment arsenal, it’s important to emphasize that drugs play a secondary role in osteoporosis management at our clinic. Our philosophy centres on addressing the root causes of bone loss through lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and targeted exercise programs. We aim to use medications for as short a time as possible while empowering patients to take control of their bone health.
It is crucial to remember that osteoporosis is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors. While drugs like abaloparatide can increase bone density, they don’t address underlying issues such as poor nutrition, a sedentary lifestyle, or hormonal imbalances. Our holistic approach focuses on these foundational aspects to build stronger bones naturally.
Implications for Patient Care
For patients at very high fracture risk, medications like abaloparatide can play an important role in quickly reducing fracture risk. We will consider it part of our treatment options, particularly for those who haven’t succeeded with other treatments.
When choosing between abaloparatide, romosozumab, and teriparatide, NICE recommends using the least expensive suitable treatment, considering administration costs, dosages, price per dose, and commercial arrangements.
Looking Ahead: World Menopause Day
As we approach World Menopause Day, this news highlights the importance of bone health for menopausal and postmenopausal individuals. It reminds us to prioritize prevention and early intervention. At the London Osteoporosis Clinic, we encourage all women to assess their bone health and take proactive steps to maintain strong bones throughout life.
Conclusion
While we welcome new treatment options like abaloparatide, our core message remains unchanged: the best approach to osteoporosis combines lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, targeted exercise, and judicious use of medications when necessary. This comprehensive strategy offers the best chance for long-term bone health and fracture prevention.
As healthcare providers, it’s our responsibility to stay informed about new treatments while maintaining a holistic view of patient care. Abaloparatide is a valuable addition to our toolkit, but it’s just one piece of the complex puzzle of osteoporosis management.
