Medication for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes a person's bones to become fragile and brittle putting you at risk for easily fracturing or breaking bones. If you find yourself in this situation you are probably working on a plan with your doctor for treatment options. There are several supplements you can take or medications. On top of that it is very important that you maintain a healthy diet filled with lots of calcium and vitamin D as well as exercise regularly to keep your bones as strong as possible. If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or trying to prevent osteoporosis there are a few medications your doctor may prescribe such as the following.

1. Calcitonin-Calcitonin can be taken by a shot in your muscles/fat tissues or by nasal spray. It is used for both women and men. calcitionin helps control calcium levels in your body, slow the degree of bone thinning, and alleviates the pain caused by spinal compression fractures (when the vertebrae give way and fracture on top of each other).

2. Parathyroid Hormone-Also known as Teriparatide is given by daily injections and used in men and women with harsh and grave osteoporosis that are at risk for bone fractures. Although this medication is very costly being that it has to be injected daily it works in increasing bone density when taken with supplements.

3. Bisphosphonates-Taken by mouth by men and women (how often is determined by your doctor). Bisphosphonates are taken for prevention measures, but can also be taken for treatment as well. It works in helping to stop or slow done the procedure that dissolve bone tissue. This method results in strengthening and boosting bone density to prevent bone fractures from occurring.

4. Raloxifene-Raloxifene is only for postmenopausal women and is taken by pill daily. Raloxifene acts like estrogen on the bones which reduces bone thinning triggering enhanced bone thickness. Raloxifene can also reduce the threat of breast cancer.

When taking these medications side effects may occur and should be noted to be discussed with your doctor immediately. If you are on any other medications you should make your doctor aware as mixing medications can be potentially harmful and not advised. Supplements or hormone therapy may also be used to treat or prevent osteoporosis if you are not willing to take medication and prefer natural treatment. You should discuss all options with your doctor to determine what methods would work best for your situation and beliefs.

Source:
I do not take credit for this information, information was provided from http://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/tc/osteoporosis-medications