In short
There are currently 2 clinical trials investigating new treatments for osteopenia. Both studies are taking place in Denmark and focus on improving bone health through different medication approaches. These trials aim to find better ways to manage low bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in people affected by this condition.
Clinical trial locations
- Denmark
Study on Dasatinib and Quercetin for Patients with Osteoporosis or Osteopenia
This trial is investigating a new combination treatment approach for people with low bone mass. The study tests whether dasatinib, a protein kinase inhibitor typically used for cancer treatment, combined with either quercetin or nicotinamide riboside, can help improve bone health. The research focuses on reducing bone resorption, which is the process where bone breaks down and releases minerals into the bloodstream.
Who can participate: The trial is open to men and women aged 60 to 90 years. Women must be at least 5 years past menopause, confirmed by specific hormone levels. Participants need to have an increased risk of fractures based on the WHO's Fracture Risk Assessment Tool and must have either osteopenia or osteoporosis confirmed by bone density measurements. This includes people with osteopenia who have T-scores between -2 and -2.5, those with osteopenia and a history of certain fractures, or those with osteoporosis who are suitable for conventional treatments but prefer to participate in the trial or cannot use conventional treatments for medical reasons.
Who cannot participate: People with bone conditions other than osteopenia or osteoporosis cannot join. Those outside the specified age range or who are part of vulnerable populations are also excluded.
Study focus: The trial lasts 21 weeks and monitors various markers of bone health. Researchers will measure CTX, a circulating marker of bone resorption, along with other markers related to bone formation and breakdown. The goal is to determine whether this medication combination can offer a new approach to managing low bone mass conditions.
Medications being tested: Dasatinib works by targeting and eliminating certain cells that contribute to bone deterioration. Quercetin, a natural substance found in fruits and vegetables, is being tested for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support bone health. Nicotinamide riboside, a form of vitamin B3, is being studied for its potential to support cell health and maintain bone strength.
Study on the Effects of Alendronate on Bone and Blood Sugar Markers in Patients with Diabetes and Osteopenia/Osteoporosis
This clinical trial examines how alendronate affects both bone health and blood sugar control in patients who have diabetes along with low bone density. The study compares the effects of alendronate tablets with a placebo over a period of up to 24 months.
Who can participate: The trial is open to both men and women aged 50 or older who have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Participants must have been on the same diabetes treatment for at least six months, though dose changes are allowed. They need to have an HbA1c level of 6.7% or higher, a Body Mass Index between 19 and 35, and a DXA T-score between -3.5 and -0.5, which measures bone density.
Who cannot participate: Pregnant or breastfeeding women are excluded. People with severe kidney problems, those with a history of allergic reactions to the study medication, and those who have recently taken similar medications cannot join. Individuals with certain other medical conditions that might interfere with the study, those unable to follow study procedures, and patients currently in another clinical trial are also not eligible.
Study focus: The research investigates how alendronate affects markers related to bone health and blood sugar control in diabetic patients. Throughout the study, researchers will monitor HbA1c levels, bone density, insulin levels, plasma glucose, and other biochemical markers related to bone and metabolic health. Lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity will also be assessed.
Medication being tested: Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication taken orally once a week. It works by slowing down the process that breaks down bone tissue, helping to maintain or increase bone density. In this trial, researchers are particularly interested in how it might benefit diabetic patients who also have concerns about their bone health.
Summary
Both ongoing clinical trials for osteopenia are being conducted in Denmark, indicating a concentrated research effort in this region. The studies represent different treatment approaches: one explores an innovative combination therapy using dasatinib with quercetin or nicotinamide riboside, while the other investigates the well-established medication alendronate in a specific patient population with diabetes. Notably, the first trial focuses specifically on older adults aged 60-90, while the second includes a broader age range starting at 50. The second trial is particularly unique in addressing the intersection of bone health and diabetes management, recognizing that many patients face both challenges simultaneously. These trials offer opportunities for people with low bone density to access new treatment approaches and contribute to advancing medical knowledge in this field.
