Osteoporosis drug strontium ranelate (Protelos) no longer available after August

The osteoporosis medication strontium ranelate (Protelos) will no longer be available in the UK after August following a decision by its manufacturers Servier to cease marketing and supply of the drug treatment.

The decision, the manufacturers say, has been taken because of commercial reasons based on the drug having limited uses and being prescribed to - and used by - very few people.

This decision follows safety concerns about the drug connected to cardiovascular risks which have led to its limited use and a continuous decrease in those being treated with it. Strontium ranelate will no longer be available anywhere in the world from August 2017.

Protelos was licensed for treatment of severe osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and adult men at high risk of fracture.

Sarah Leyland, Osteoporosis Nurse Consultant at the Royal Osteoporosis Society, said anyone currently taking this treatment is advised to talk to their GP.

“Although stontium ranelate isn’t commonly prescribed, there will be some people who have been taking this drug treatment who may be confused and worried when it’s no longer available. They will need to see their doctor and discuss other drug treatment options. It’s also important that Health Professionals review patients currently taking strontium ranelate to discuss an alternative treatment.”

We will continue to work with NICE to ensure that new osteoporosis drugs are considered promptly and that a range of safe and effective treatments are available in the UK.”

For more information about osteoporosis drug treatments contact our specialist nurses at 0808 800 0035 or nurses@theros.org.uk

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