Abstract
Studies performed at two centers compared the effect of Rocaltrol) 0.25 mu g twice daily versus placebo on vertebral fracture rates in osteoporotics. A significant reduction in vertebral fracture rates was seen at the end of 1 year. Those patients who continued on Rocaltrol) for a second and third year showed a progressive decrease in vertebral fractures. Rocaltrol), administered at a dose of 0.25 mu g twice daily, seldom causes hypercalcuria or hypercalcemia in osteoporotic patients on a typical calcium intake of 700 to 800 mg/d. Careful measurements of renal function over a period of 3 years in patients treated with Rocaltrol), 0.25 mu g twice daily, showed no deterioration in renal function. These data suggest that 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D sub(3) is a useful therapy in the management of patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis, particularly those who have malabsorption of calcium.