The ‘Behind the Headlines’ service from NHS Choices has featured a quality assessment of press reports of a ‘pill that heals brittle bones’ (Daily Mail, 8th Feb 2010).

The authors of the assessment look at the press reports and review the research that they were based upon, including methodology, results and implications.  In summary, the study explored whether a compound (known as LP533401) that prevents the production of gut-derived serotonin (known to inhibit bone formation) could be used to treat osteoporosis. They note that “while this drug may one day prove to be a successful treatment for osteoporosis in humans, the research was conducted in mice and the Daily Mail has been over-optimistic in heralding this as a cure after such early research”.

Please see the link below to access the full assessment, for further details.