Osteoporosis treatment: Medications That Can Help

When bone density declines, osteoporosis occurs. More bone tissue is reabsorbed by the body, and less is produced to replace it. Bones become porous and weaker in persons with osteoporosis, increasing the risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, spinal vertebrae, and some peripheral joints, such as the wrists.
Over 44 million people in the United States suffer osteoporosis, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation . Medication and lifestyle changes may be used to treat osteoporosis. Get answers to some of the most prevalent osteoporosis treatment queries.

If you're receiving osteoporosis treatment, you're making a positive step toward better bone health. However, you may have concerns about your therapy. Is the medication you're on the right track for you? How long do you think you'll have to take it? Why does your doctor advise you to take a weekly tablet whereas your friend only takes it once a month?


When it comes to osteoporosis medications, which ones are usually tried first?

Bisphosphonates are typically the first line of Osteoporosis Treatment. These are some of them:

• A medication called alendronate (Fosamax) is taken once a week.

• A medication called Risedronate (Actonel) is used once a week or once a month.

• A monthly pill or a quarterly intravenous (IV) infusion of ibandronate (Boniva)

• An IV infusion of zoledronic acid (Reclast) is given once a year.

Denosumab is another prevalent osteoporosis drug (Prolia, Xgeva). Denosumab, which is unrelated to bisphosphonates, may be used in persons who are unable to take bisphosphonates, such as those with impaired kidney function.

Denosumab is administered every six months through shallow injections just beneath the skin. Unless your doctor switches you to another medicine, you might have to take denosumab indefinitely. According to recent studies, discontinuing the medicine could result in a significant risk of spinal fractures, therefore it's critical that you take it consistently.