Is nitroglycerin a novel and inexpensive treatment for osteoporosis?

Khosla S
JAMA Feb 2011
PMID: 21343584 | Free Full Text

Despite the differences in the results of the study by Jamal et al2 compared with the largely negative study by Wimalawansa et al,11 the findings reported by Jamal et al2 should set the stage for an adequately powered, larger study using nitroglycerin ointment with fracture as an outcome. If such a study demonstrates efficacy for reducing fractures, clinicians would have a novel and inexpensive therapy for osteoporosis. The findings of the current study also should prompt development of additional nitric oxide donors with greater skeletal efficacy and a better adverse effect profile, particularly with regard to headaches.