Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Does Strontium Intake To Build Bones Affect An Individual’s Blood Cells?

Yes, Thank You ... I'm looking for a safe vitamin to build my bones - I was reading a Journal of Natural Health - it Mentioned Strontium- I check it on the computer- side effects has to do with affecting the blood cells- or did I panic, and mis -read? I'm 74 yrs old -female with osteoporosis.. but going strong. No broken bones- knock on wood!!
posted on Mon, 27 Mar 2017
Twitter Tue, 11 Apr 2017 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 12 Apr 2017 Last reviewed on
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Dear Madam, Hi & Welcome.
I appreciate your concern for the safety of Strontium.

Scientific studies on experimental animals have shown that strontium ranelate has cytotoxic effect on peripheral blood cell population upon both acute and chronic treatment. However, there is no such study done on human beings.

Strontium ranelate is known to inhibit bone resorption and to stimulate bone formation thus useful in the treatment and prevention of bone loss when used in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

However, diarrhea is the most common adverse effect associated with its use, usually occurring with higher doses. Data also suggests that patients receiving strontium for 3-4 years have a higher risk for vascular side effects (eg, blood clots) and nervous system side effects (eg, seizures)

As far as the prevention of osteoporosis is concerned, the dietary supplements containing strontium are unproven and should be avoided.I would recommend weight-bearing exercises and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.

On the other hand for the treatment of an established osteoporosis, FDA-approved treatments in the form of anti-resorptive agents such as Bisphonates are indicated. Parathyroid hormone (Teriparatide) and fluoride which stimulate the bone formation are also recommended.

Hope the advice given above would be beneficial.
I find this answer helpful
Note: Get a consultation booked to know more about aging related medical issues. Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Does Strontium Intake To Build Bones Affect An Individual’s Blood Cells?

Dear Madam, Hi & Welcome. I appreciate your concern for the safety of Strontium. Scientific studies on experimental animals have shown that strontium ranelate has cytotoxic effect on peripheral blood cell population upon both acute and chronic treatment. However, there is no such study done on human beings. Strontium ranelate is known to inhibit bone resorption and to stimulate bone formation thus useful in the treatment and prevention of bone loss when used in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. However, diarrhea is the most common adverse effect associated with its use, usually occurring with higher doses. Data also suggests that patients receiving strontium for 3-4 years have a higher risk for vascular side effects (eg, blood clots) and nervous system side effects (eg, seizures) As far as the prevention of osteoporosis is concerned, the dietary supplements containing strontium are unproven and should be avoided.I would recommend weight-bearing exercises and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake. On the other hand for the treatment of an established osteoporosis, FDA-approved treatments in the form of anti-resorptive agents such as Bisphonates are indicated. Parathyroid hormone (Teriparatide) and fluoride which stimulate the bone formation are also recommended. Hope the advice given above would be beneficial.