Meta Information

ID:strontium

Name:Strontium

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Strontium Citrate
• Strontium Ranelate

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

15

High Cost:

30

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement; not covered by insurance.

Summary

Strontium is a trace mineral chemically similar to calcium that incorporates into bone. It is thought to support bone health by simultaneously stimulating osteoblasts (bone-building cells) and inhibiting osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells). Its primary relevance to healthspan is mitigating age-related bone loss (osteoporosis), which helps reduce fracture risk and maintain mobility and independence in later life.

Purpose

A trace mineral supplement used to increase bone mineral density.

Card Summary

A trace mineral similar to calcium, strontium is used to increase bone mineral density and reduce fracture risk associated with osteoporosis.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

4.5

Justification:

Targeted benefit for bone mineral density, reducing a key risk of aging (fractures).

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

7

Justification:

Human RCTs (primarily on strontium ranelate) show increased bone density and reduced fractures.

Safety

Score:

5.5

Justification:

Strontium ranelate is linked to cardiovascular risks; long-term safety of citrate form is less studied.

Flags

• Must be taken several hours apart from calcium supplements or calcium-rich foods to avoid absorption competition.
• Can artificially inflate Bone Mineral Density (BMD) readings on DEXA scans, complicating interpretation.
• The prescription form, strontium ranelate (not available in the US), is associated with increased risk of blood clots (VTE) and serious cardiovascular events.
• Not recommended for individuals with a history of, or high risk for, cardiovascular disease or VTE.
• Long-term safety data for the common supplement form (strontium citrate) is limited.

Verdict

A targeted tool for bone density, but with notable safety considerations.

Created

2026-04-26T18:30:07.278629Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Strontium is a trace mineral chemically similar to calcium that incorporates into bone. It is thought to support bone health by simultaneously stimulating osteoblasts (bone-building cells) and inhibit...

Typical Protocol

• Daily doses of 340mg to 680mg of elemental strontium are often used for bone health, taken away from calcium intake.