Medications to Treat Osteoporosis

There is no complete cure for osteoporosis, but medications can be used to prevent and treat the progress of the condition. These include a variety of antiresorptive, therapeutic medications that vary in dosage from daily to monthly.

Function

• Medications recommended for osteoporosis can help to reduce fracture risk, prevent or decelerate bone loss, and increase bone density.

Types

• Medications commonly used to treat osteoporosis include oral and intravenous bisphosphonates, estrogen/hormone therapy, calcitonin, teriparatide and raloxifene.

Considerations

• Medications prescribed to treat osteoporosis are most effective when they are combined with other treatment methods, including a proper nutritional diet promoting bone growth and strength, an exercise program, and safety precautions with indoor/outdoor activity.

Benefits

• Bisphosphonates and raloxifene can be used as a preventative medication for postmenopausal osteoporosis as well as a treatment. Teriparatide stimulates new bone formation, and calcitonin is a natural hormone that helps with bone metabolism and calcium regulation.

Warning

• Most of the above medications used to treat osteoporosis come with side effects including gastrointestinal problems, flu-like symptoms, nasal irritation and leg cramps.