Strontium ranelate (prescription, EU — Protelos®) reduced vertebral fractures by 41% and hip fractures by 36% in the SOTI/TROPOS trials. It's the only dual-action bone agent: stimulates osteoblasts (bone building) AND inhibits osteoclasts (bone resorption). BUT: cardiovascular safety concerns led to EU restrictions (increased MI/stroke risk). OTC strontium citrate has no cardiovascular data but also no fracture data. DEXA scans overestimate BMD by 8-12% in strontium users (strontium has higher atomic weight than calcium, creating artifact). Our assessment: prescription strontium ranelate has proven efficacy but CV risk. OTC strontium citrate is unproven. --- *Reviewed by the Dose AI Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board* *Last updated: 2026-04-06*
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.