Testing of inhaled osteoporosis drug begins

The Cambridge biotechnology company Alkermes Inc. has started an early-stage clinical trial for its inhaled formulation of Eli Lilly & Co.’s osteoporosis drug Forteo.

The study will test the safety and tolerability of the inhaled formulation, along with its effectiveness in reaching its target area, the company said today.

In 2006, Alkermes and Eli Lilly agreed to develop and commercialize an inhaled version of the drug using Alkermes’ AIR technology.

Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which bone mineral density is reduced, making bones weak.
(AP)