Shortage of strontium ranelate from October

Stocks of strontium ranelate, the daily drug treatment for osteoporosis, are due to run out this October.

Production has stopped due to a lack of the main ingredient.

If you’re currently taking strontium ranelate, originally called Protelos, you should contact your GP or specialist now to discuss changing to an alternative osteoporosis drug treatment.

Strontium ranelate was widely prescribed for many years but since research showed there is a possible link between the drug and an increased risk of heart attack around 10 years ago, it has been used less and less. It is now only usually prescribed by specialists in hospital. The manufacturer expects it may be a year or more before they can secure supplies of the ingredient again.

Worried about a gap in treatment? Help is available.

You can call our Helpline on 0808 800 0035, email our specialist nurses on nurses@theros.org.uk and go to the Treatment section of our website to learn more about alternative drug treatments for osteoporosis. Your pharmacist may also be able to provide more information.