Abstract
The therapeutic use of sodium fluoride has been recommended in a variety of osteopenic bone diseases. The recommendations are based mainly on the known osteosclerotic effects of sodium fluoride and little information is available as to its effect on bone strength. The influence of various concentrations of sodium fluoride on bone strength in growing rats on high nnd low calcium diets was studied. The administration of sodium fluoride increased bone diameter, indicating stimulation of periosteal hone formation, but bone strength was reduced or not affected by fluoride ingestion.