Used in the treatment of osteoporosis, balicatib inhibits cathepsin K, an enzyme involved in bone resorption. By blocking this enzyme, it helps reduce bone breakdown and supports increased bone mineral density. It has been investigated for its potential to lower fracture risk in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Clinical development faced challenges due to side effects, including skin reactions, which limited its long-term use. Despite this, it contributed to research on targeted therapies for bone-related diseases.