Can Fluoride be Used to Treat Osteoporosis?

QUESTION: I see lots of the results of osteoporosis all around me. Many of
these women are trying calcium to stop some of the results of the condition.
In a discussion someone said they thought that fluoride was a good medicine
for this. Can fluoride be used to treat osteoporosis?
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ANSWER: Osteoporosis is a loss of calcium in the bone, which leads to
decreased strength and density in the bones. This is a widespread problem in
the United States and Northern Europe, and it is considered to be the most
important factor in fracture of the hip, vertebrae and wrist. Americans have
heard a lot lately about increasing their calcium intake in an effort to avoid
osteoporosis.
Fluoride is being studied as a way to treat osteoporosis, and it appears
to be effective in reducing the risk of fractures in persons with
osteoporosis. These studies are indicating that fluoride may be particularly
helpful in preventing fractures of the vertebrae, but more research is
necessary before this is proven to be true.
As with any treatment, fluoride has its risks. Commonly reported side
effects of fluoride treatment are gastrointestinal problems and ankle or knee
joint pain. Although fluoride is approved for preventing dental decay, it has
not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating
osteoporosis. Until more extensive studies are done that prove fluoride's
effectiveness in treating osteoporosis, it will not be approved for this use.
Calcium, a balanced diet, exercise and good overall health are the best
ways to combat osteoporosis right now. When increasing the calcium in your
diet, take care that you don't increase fat as well. Use low-fat dairy
products and other foods that are rich in calcium.