Male Osteoporosis: A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Approaches in Modern Pharmacotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine Interventions.

Abstract

Male osteoporosis presents a significant yet often overlooked health concern, characterised by reduced bone mass and increased fracture risk. This medical problem warrants comprehensive treatment approaches integrating modern pharmacotherapy and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) interventions. This review aims to provide an extensive overview of the treatment options available for male osteoporosis, encompassing both conventional medications and traditional Chinese herbal remedies. Modern pharmacotherapy offers treatments to mitigate bone loss, enhance bone density, and reduce fracture risk in male osteoporotic patients. These options include bisphosphonates, denosumab, teriparatide, abaloparatide, romosozumab, raloxifene, calcitonin, and testosterone replacement therapy. The efficacy of these medications is well-established; however, their potential side effects cannot be overlooked. Meanwhile, TCM interventions offer promising alternatives with minimal adverse effects. Various TCM treatments, such as Duhuo Jisheng Decoction, Liuwei Dihuang Decoction, Erxian Decoction, Jintiange Capsule, Qianggu Capsule, Xianling Gubao Capsule, Zuogui Pill, Qing'e Pill, and Gusongbao, have demonstrated efficacy in improving bone health and reducing fracture risk in male osteoporotic patients. Additionally, alternative treatments, including acupuncture, tuina, and infrared laser therapy, provide further therapeutic avenues for managing male osteoporosis, highlighting the holistic approach of TCM. Future research should focus on evaluating the efficacy, safety, and potential synergistic effects of combining different modalities to enhance the treatment outcomes for male osteoporotic patients. Although the efficacy of TCM is notable, it largely relies on evidence-based medicine and experiential use, with fewer double-blinded studies. Therefore, more vigorous studies are needed to establish the role of TCM as a valid complementary treatment option for osteoporosis.