These possible added benefits of ERT make it perhaps a more attractive option for the post menopausal, osteoporosis-prone woman than bone specific agents such as bisphosphonates or calcitonin. ERT indeed is prescribed often and yet, the compliance with its use is quite poor due to frequent side effects and the fear of breast cancer promotion. The purpose of this presentation is to compare the use of E vs. R for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. E maintains skeletal integrity by direct and indirect effects on bone.
E regulates the production of cytokines and growth factors in bone.
TGF beta inhibits the differentiation of progenitor cells into mature osteoclasts and reduces the bone resorbing activity. Both E and R promote the apoptosis of osteoclasts. E also prevents the increase in osteocyte apoptosis in ovariectomized animals. Both compounds decrease postmenopausal bone loss by slowing bone turnover with comparable results on bone histomorphometry, calcium balance, and changes in biochemical markers of bone turnover. Similar effects are produced by E and R on bone biomechanical strength.