Strontium — Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does strontium really build bone or just inflate DEXA scans?
Does strontium really build bone or just inflate DEXA scans?
Both are true to some degree. Strontium genuinely stimulates osteoblasts and inhibits osteoclasts, producing real bone-building effects. However, because strontium has a higher atomic number than calcium, DEXA scans overestimate BMD by about 10% when strontium is incorporated into bone. The SOTI and TROPOS trials showed actual fracture reduction, confirming real structural benefit beyond the measurement artifact.
Is OTC strontium citrate as effective as prescription strontium ranelate?
Is OTC strontium citrate as effective as prescription strontium ranelate?
Unknown. The fracture-reduction evidence comes from strontium ranelate trials. Strontium citrate provides the same elemental strontium but has not been studied in large RCTs. The ranelic acid component may contribute additional effects beyond strontium alone. Many bone health practitioners use strontium citrate as an affordable alternative, but the evidence is extrapolated, not proven.
Why must strontium be taken separately from calcium?
Why must strontium be taken separately from calcium?
Strontium and calcium use the same intestinal absorption pathways and directly compete for uptake. Taking them together dramatically reduces strontium absorption. For best results, take strontium at bedtime on an empty stomach, and take calcium supplements at a different time of day (morning or with meals).
References
- Meunier PJ, Roux C, Seeman E, et al. (2004). The effects of strontium ranelate on the risk of vertebral fracture in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI PubMed
- Reginster JY, Seeman E, De Vernejoul MC, et al. (2005). Strontium ranelate reduces the risk of nonvertebral fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis: Treatment of Peripheral Osteoporosis (TROPOS) study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. DOI PubMed
- Reginster JY, Kaufman JM, Goemaere S, et al. (2012). Maintenance of antifracture efficacy over 10 years with strontium ranelate in postmenopausal osteoporosis. Osteoporosis International. DOI PubMed