GROWTH-HORMONE AND INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH-FACTORS AS ANABOLIC THERAPIES FOR OSTEOPOROSIS

Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) play a cent ral role in skeletal growth and bone remodeling. In vitro, both agents display anabolic properties, and patients with acromegaly exhibit inc reased bone mass. Recent in vivo studies have demonstrated profound ac tivation of bone remodeling that lasted for months after a single 1-we ek dose of GH or IGF-I. Despite these positive effects, the few clinic al studies conducted with GH in osteoporotic patients have shown disap pointing results in terms of bone mass changes. Changes in dosing regi mens and other adjuvant therapies may, however, lead to more efficient use of these agents.