Scientists have discovered an experimental drug that could be used to treat crippling bone loss and weight gain in mid and later life.About one in five women aged 50 and over has osteoporosis, a painful condition where bones weaken, raising the risk of fractures in the hip, wrist or spine.Drugs are available to strengthen bones, but they cause a litany of unpleasant side effects, including hot flashes, leg cramps and swelling. Some must also be taken standing, with patients told to stay upright for 30 minutes afterwards.Now, researchers in the UK and Maryland say they have found a potential alternative that works without the major side effects.The drug, called CADD522, was developed to treat cancers including bone cancer and works by blocking a protein that drives tumor growth and spread. But scientists found that when postmenopausal mice were given the drug for eight weeks, they developed much stronger bones. They also lost weight compared to those that did not receive the drug. The drug was well tolerated, even after it was also given to rats and dogs. It is still in the early stages of development and likely years away from reaching patients, but researchers said the finding could lead to a 'new generation of osteoporosis treatments'. About four in five osteoporosis patients are women. Drugs are available but they have grueling side effects. Now, researchers say they have potentially found a new treatment