Are you wondering what's new in osteoporosis research for 2026? In this episode, I'm joined by my husband, Dr. Craig Bissinger, as we review the most exciting osteoporosis updates from 2026. We share insights from the Interdisciplinary Symposium on Osteoporosis in Washington, DC, covering everything from new medications and bone-building drugs to the latest research on estrogen therapy and early screening strategies.

We discuss the FDA's new endpoint for drug approval, which could speed up the availability of new medications like the oral version of Forteo. We also review the removal of the estrogen black box warning, showing that for many women, the benefits outweigh the risks, especially for those under 60 or within 10 years of menopause. We also dive into bone turnover markers that track bone building and breakdown in real time, helping you see progress in months rather than years.

Finally, we discuss new screening guidelines, early detection for women, and the importance of interdisciplinary care. Tune in to learn how you can be proactive in protecting and strengthening your bones.

"By changing the criteria for assessing the quality of the drug, they've chosen a different parameter, which is the Bone Mineral Density [BMD]...You're going to have a much more rapid evaluation, and henceforth new drugs will be able to come to the market earlier." ~ Dr. Craig Bissinger

In this episode:

- [01:23] - FDA approves total hip BMD as endpoint for drug trials

- [01:57] - Oral Forteo: First pill version of anabolic drug

- [04:29] - Removal of estrogen black box warning and implications

- [10:16] - Estrogen for bone health, heart, and colon protection

- [11:36] - Short-course anabolic therapy vs. maintenance therapy

- [16:35] - Importance of medication sequencing

- [24:30] - Bone turnover markers for monitoring progress

- [32:04] - New screening guidelines for women

- [37:55] - Bone medication and cardiovascular risk

- [40:07] - The use of AI in diagnostics

- [43:18] - Interdisciplinary care and referrals to physical therapy

Resources

- Get quality supplements from Margie's Fullscript Dispensary - https://tinyurl.com/paylesssupplements

- Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures (video series) - https://tinyurl.com/strongerbonesexercises

More about Margie

- Website - https://margiebissinger.com/

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en

DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast.

*In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.