Drugs That Reduce Bone Density

Bone mineral density (BMD) is a key indicator of our health. If our bones lose mineral deposits, then they become weak and brittle, putting us at risk for fractures. While some bone demineralization occurs as part of normal aging, osteopenia can also occur as the result of certain medications. Your doctor can determine whether the benefits of a particular drug outweigh the risk of reduced bone density.

Types: Contraceptives

• Injectable contraceptives may decrease bone density.

  Contraceptives may decrease bone density in women. In 2002, Scholes and Ichikawa published their findings in "Epidemiology" and revealed that an injectable hormone contraceptive, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) or Depo-Provera, leads to an increased risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Types- Glucocorticoids

• Inflammatory bowel disease is treated with glucocorticoids.

  Glucocorticoids are prescribed to decrease inflammation caused by illnesses such as tuberculosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and Crohn's disease. Long-term use of glucocorticoids may decrease bone density.

Types: Antiseizure

• Antiseizure medications may be prescribed for chronic pain.

  Certain antiseizure medications may affect bone demineralization. Because these medications are sometimes prescribed for pain management, patients other than those with seizure disorders may also take them.

Potential: Osteoporosis

• Consult your doctor about treatment options.

  Postmenopausal women not taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are at risk for bone thinning. Your physician might recommend another medicine, such as Boniva (ibandronate sodium), to help preserve the density of your bones.

Benefits

• Take the medications recommended by your doctor.

  Bone densitometry tests reveal bone density levels. The test benefits patients because medical professionals can use test results to monitor changes in your bone density and make any needed changes to prescribed medications.