Using exercise and medication to prevent bone loss during weight loss in older adults

Exercise and Bisphosphonate Use to Minimize Weight Loss Associated Bone Loss among Older Adults

['FUNDING_R01'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY · NIH-10917084

This study is looking at how combining exercise with a medication called bisphosphonate can help older adults who are losing weight keep their bones strong and healthy over a year-long program.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10917084 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how exercise and bisphosphonate medication can work together to prevent bone loss in older adults who are trying to lose weight. The study will involve a 12-month trial where participants will engage in resistance training and bone-loading exercises, while some will also receive bisphosphonate treatment. The goal is to determine if this combination can effectively minimize bone density loss that often accompanies weight loss in older individuals. Participants will be monitored for changes in bone mineral density and overall health throughout the trial.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are overweight or obese and are looking to lose weight while maintaining their bone health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have concerns about bone density loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help older adults lose weight without the risk of losing bone density, reducing their chances of fractures and osteoporosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive effects of exercise on bone density in stable weight older adults, but this specific combination of exercise and bisphosphonates during weight loss has not been formally tested.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.