Researchers are in the beginning stages of attempting to determine whether vitamin C can help protect humans against the effects of osteoporosis, which could make it an effective alternative to Fosamax. So far, according to a study published in the online journal PLoS One, when mice ingest large amounts of vitamin C, they exhibit increased bone formation.
Study Aimed at Replicating Benefits for Postmenopausal Women
The study used two sets of mice to determine whether vitamin C could be effective at inhibiting bone loss. The first set of mice had their ovaries removed, which is known to lower bone mineral density. The second set had “sham” ovary removal surgery, which did not decrease their bone mineral density.
The researchers then proceeded to divide the group of mice without ovaries into two groups: one that received a large amount of vitamin C during an eight week period and one that did not. After eight weeks, the mice given the vitamin C had higher bone mineral density than the ones that were not. Further, the mice that underwent the sham procedure had similar bone mineral density to the mice without ovaries that were given vitamin C.
While the results of this study are encouraging, it remains to be seen if vitamin C can be an effective alternative to a prescription drug like Fosamax in humans. A previous study conducted in 2008 at Tufts University showed that vitamin C was effective at increasing bone mineral density in elderly men, but did not have a similar effect in women. This time around, however, some in the medical community are encouraged:
“If replicated in people, the findings could have profound public health implications,” study researcher Dr. Mone Zaidi, a professor and director of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine Bone Program, told the Huffington Post. “What this study shows is that large doses of vitamin C, when ingested orally by mice, actively stimulate bone formation to protect the skeleton. It does this by inducing osteoblasts, or premature bone cells, to differentiate into mature, mineralizing specialty cells.”
Consult a Physician Before Making Any Medication or Dietary Modifications
Although Fosamax has helped many people keep the effects of osteoporosis in check, there might be alternatives to the drug. Only a qualified medical professional, however, can advise whether osteoporosis can be treated without medication. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of a drug like Fosamax in order to determine whether it is right for you.
RLG Represents Injured Fosamax Users
If you have been taking Fosamax for an extended period of time and have suffered a femur fracture, it could be because of the medication, and you might be eligible for compensation by filing a femur fracture lawsuit against Merck. The lawyers at the Rottenstein Law Group can help. Our Fosamax lawyers have over 25 years of collective experience advocating for clients in consumer product injury and mass tort cases. Please fill out our contact form or call us at 1-877-332-2347, and one of our lawyers will be in touch.
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