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FDA Determines Risks of Calcitonin Outweigh Benefits
Last week, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Panel voted that the risks of calcitonin salmon outweigh the benefits for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The panel joined health authorities around the world in reviewing the drug’s safety after two recent studies showed slightly higher rates of cancer among patients taking calcitonin. The panel voted against continued use of the drug by a narrow majority, pointing out that it has not been found very effective in preventing bone fractures. The panelists supporting continued use of calcitonin salmon pointed out that the drugs are an important option for patients who have bad reactions to newer drugs, including bisphosphonates.
In a separate vote, the FDA panel was nearly unanimous that any future calcitonin drugs should be required to show real effectiveness in preventing bone fractures. Following the panel vote, the FDA is now reviewing long term post marketing data concerning calcitonin and may change the prescribing information for the medication. While the final determination on calcitonin salmon is not expected for several months, the agency usually follows the recommendations of its advisory panels.
For additional information, visit the FDA website for the advisory committee meeting materials or read this USA Today article summarizing the panel's vote.
The latest
In today's Washington Post article "Calcium and Vitamin D findings show that caring for your bones can be compilicated," NOF's senior clinical director, Dr. Felicia Cosman helps clear up some of the confusion around the recent and conflicting research on calcium and vitamin D. She says: "It’s confusing, even for doctors. But there’s a common thread: None of the heart or kidney risks were associated with calcium from food."
CIRCA, the leading international buyer of fine jewelry, diamonds and watches, announced a new partnership with NOF at a Generations of Strength luncheon at the Friars Club in New York City on February 26. To kick-off the partnership, CIRCA’s Acting CEO Mary L. Forté presented NOF Executive Director and CEO Amy Porter with a check for $25,000, to support NOF’s mission.
In response to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force’s (USPSTF) recommendation stating that there is insufficient evidence to assess the balance of benefits and harms of calcium and vitamin D supplementation for the primary prevention of fractures, the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) reminds the public that both nutrients are an important part of bone health management.
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