What Are the Treatments for Osteoporosis in Women?

Osteoporosis means "porous bones." It is a condition in which the bones become brittle and are easily broken. It most commonly afflicts women after menopause. As osteoporosis progresses, the bones will break more easily, so even such simple actions as bending over can cause bone fractures. Bones weaken when they become depleted of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals.

Exercise

• One of the best ways to treat osteoporosis is via exercise, which will help strengthen the bones and prevent fracture.

Hormones

• Hormonal therapy was once the primary way of treating osteoporosis. Its use has declined, however, due to concerns about increased cancer risk.

Bisphosphanates

• Bisphosphanates are a type of medication that inhibits the breakdown of bone and can be used to treat osteoporosis.

Raloxifene

• Raloxifene is a medication that affects bones similarly to estrogen but without the increased risk of cancer.

Calcitonin

• Calcitonin is a hormone that is made by the parathyroid organ. This hormone prevents bone from being broken down and can help slow bone loss.