Effect of HMB and vitamin D supplementation on osteosarcopenia in older persons

This study is testing whether a supplement combination of vitamin D3 and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) can help older adults with osteosarcopenia — a condition where both bone density and muscle mass and strength are reduced simultaneously, dramatically increasing the risk of falls and fractures. There are currently no approved drug treatments specifically for osteosarcopenia, and supplements may offer a safe, accessible option. Men and postmenopausal women aged 65 and over who have both low muscle strength and reduced bone density (confirmed by grip strength measurement, walking speed test, and bone density scan) will be randomly assigned to take either vitamin D3 plus HMB or vitamin D3 plus placebo daily for 24 weeks. Physical function, muscle size and strength, and bone health markers will be assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, 24 weeks, and 36 weeks. You may be eligible if you are a man or postmenopausal woman aged 65 or over with self-reported mobility limitations, low grip strength, slow walking speed, and reduced bone density on a DXA scan. A wide range of conditions may exclude you, including recent fractures, Parkinson's disease, uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer, inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal malabsorption conditions, and certain medications affecting muscle mass. This Phase 2/3 study is run through Western Health.