Abstract: A method for treating osteoporosis which comprises administering to a mammal in need of such treatment an effective amount, typically in the range of 0.1 to 100 micrograms per kg of body weight, of a compound capable of maintaining the integrity of connective tissue, for example pentosan polysulfate. Structural formula of pentosan polysulfate (PPS) isolated from beechwood hemicellulose (Fagus silvatica). This formula shows that the linear xylan (pentosan) backbone of pentosan polysulfate contains on average one 4-O-methyl-glucuronate side chain linked to the 2-position on every tenth xylose (pentose) ring. The calcium derivative of PPS (CaPPS) is when R=SO3−Ca+½.