Bionutra - The Freedom To Live Well : Drug Treatments for Osteporosis

These treatments cannot ‘cure’ osteoporosis but they act by controlling bone loss and managing the risk of fractures.

Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonates, such as alendronate and riosedronate, may be used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. If you have disorders of the esophagus or stomach, are pregnant or nursing, or have low levels of calcium in the blood or severe kidney disease, you are advised against bisphosphonates.

Calcitonin

Calcitonin which inhibits the breakdown of bones, is particularly prescribed for those who have painful fractures of the vertebrae. It may reduce blood levels of calcium.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT helps to maintain bone density in women. It is most effective when started within 4 to 6 years after menopause. It may not be suitable for everyone. The treatment may have side effects and risk, including an increased risk of uterine cancer and breast cancer.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMS)

SERMS can be used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. By countering the effect of reduced estrogen levels in causing bone loss, SERMS has been shown to reduce the incidences of spinal fractures.


				Drug Treatments for Osteporosis Introduction to Osteoporosis The Importance of Bones Causes of Osteoporosis Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis Risks of Osteoporosis Early Detection of Osteoporosis Managing Osteoporosis Supplements Drug Treatments Exercise Diet Preventing Falls These treatments cannot ‘cure’ osteoporosis but they act by controlling bone loss and managing the risk of fractures. Bisphosphonates Bisphosphonates, such as alendronate and riosedronate, may be used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. If you have disorders of the esophagus or stomach, are pregnant or nursing, or have low levels of calcium in the blood or severe kidney disease, you are advised against bisphosphonates. Calcitonin Calcitonin which inhibits the breakdown of bones, is particularly prescribed for those who have painful fractures of the vertebrae. It may reduce blood levels of calcium. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) HRT helps to maintain bone density in women. It is most effective when started within 4 to 6 years after menopause. It may not be suitable for everyone. The treatment may have side effects and risk, including an increased risk of uterine cancer and breast cancer. Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMS) SERMS can be used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. By countering the effect of reduced estrogen levels in causing bone loss, SERMS has been shown to reduce the incidences of spinal fractures.