Fluoride in serum and bone during treatment of osteoporosis with sodium fluoride, calcium and vitamin D.

Thirteen patients with primary osteoporosis were treated for two years with sodium fluoride (NaF), calcium and dihydrotachysterol (group A). The dose of NaF was modified according to the serum fluoride concentration, which was kept as constant as possible between 0.20 and 0.25 microgram/ml. In patients with bone fluoride content greater than or equal to 0.20% a significant increase in the volumetric density and in the surface percentage covered with osteoid and with osteoblasts was observed. A second group of 7 patients with primary osteoporosis was also treated for 2 years with calcium and dihydrotachysterol, but without fluoride (group B). In these patients no significant change in the volumetric density or in the surface percentage covered with osteoid or osteoblasts was found. Patients in group A with a bone fluoride content less than 0.20% could not be distinguished from the patients in group B. Based on the available data an advice was given for the dosage of NaF in patients with osteoporosis. Regular assessment of the serum fluoride concentration remains advisable.