Strontium Therapy

Strontium is used therapeutically primarily for bone health: prescription strontium ranelate treats osteoporosis by stimulating bone formation and reducing resorption, lowering vertebral and non‑vertebral fracture risk in high‑risk postmenopausal patients (use limited by cardiovascular safety concerns). Topically, strontium salts can reduce itch in some skin conditions. Over‑the‑counter strontium supplements are marketed for bone support, but evidence and safety vary.

Foods relatively high in strontium include seafood (especially shellfish, seaweed and some fish), whole grains (bran, oats), root vegetables and tubers (beets, carrots, potatoes), leafy greens, nuts and legumes, and certain dairy products (milk, cheese). Strontium content depends on local soil and water, so levels vary by region, growing conditions and food processing.

Strontium (notably strontium ranelate) can increase bone density and reduce some fracture risks, but safety concerns—especially increased cardiovascular and thromboembolic risk—have led to restricted use. Over‑the‑counter strontium supplements lack strong evidence and can falsely raise DEXA bone‑density readings. It’s not a routine first‑line treatment; discuss risks, proven alternatives, and monitoring with your doctor before considering it.

Do you mean "SR" as sustained‑release formulations, steroid receptors (e.g., estrogen/progesterone receptors), somatostatin receptors, or something else? For example, somatostatin receptors are targeted in neuroendocrine tumour therapy, while estrogen/progesterone receptors guide breast cancer treatment. Reply which one, and I'll provide a concise explanation.

Strontium (especially strontium ranelate) should be avoided by people with a history of venous thromboembolism (DVT/PE), established cardiovascular disease (ischaemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, stroke) or uncontrolled hypertension, severe renal impairment (eGFR/CrCl <30 ml/min), pregnancy or breastfeeding, children, or known hypersensitivity. It’s also not recommended for those at high cardiovascular risk; discuss alternatives with your clinician.

Take strontium on an empty stomach and at least 2 hours away from calcium-containing foods or supplements, since calcium reduces its absorption. Many clinicians suggest taking it at bedtime or between meals for consistent uptake. Always follow product instructions and your healthcare professional’s advice, particularly if you have kidney disease or cardiovascular risk, and do not exceed the recommended dose.