Increasing human longevity is complicated by aging related physiological deteriorations. Osteoporosis, weakening of the skeletal bony units, is one of the major concerns which has developed into a major public health problem.1 According to the World Health Organization, osteoporosis affects approximately 75 million people in Europe, USA, and Japan. Although data are not available in China, with her large population, a vast number of people would be expected to be affected.2
      The aging individual might not be aware of osteoporosis until fracture complications occur. When the apparently normal aging process abruptly turns into a disastrous mishap with the occurrence of fracture, the orthopaedic surgeon becomes directly involved. The rising incidence of hip fractures is often related to osteoporosis. A large number of patients with low back pain among the elderlies is caused by or related to osteoporotic compression of the vertebral bodies.3,4

      TREATMENT OF OSTEOPOROSIS
      The last 40 years have demonstrated a show of the strength of pharmaceutical departments in their successful attempts to search for potent anti-osteoporotic agents. Starting with hormonal replacement therapy in the 1960’s, to oestrogen-receptor mediators (SERMS), and osteoclast suppression therapy and promotion of osteoblast activity, more and more potent therapies for the maintenance of bone density have become available (Figure 1).5