Balicatib, a cathepsin K inhibitor, stimulates periosteal bone formation in monkeys

Summary  

Balicatib, an inhibitor of the osteoclastic enzyme cathepsin K, was tested in ovariectomized monkeys, a model for osteoporosis. As expected, ovariectomy-induced bone mass changes were partially prevented by balicatib treatment. Bone turnover was significantly decreased at most sites, but unlike most bone resorption inhibitors, periosteal bone formation rates were increased.