Female: If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, you are not alone. Ten million Americans have this condition. Still you are probably wondering, now what.
Male: Currently, there are number of medicinal therapies available to treat the bone weakening and loss characteristic of osteoporosis. A group of medications called biphosphonates are often used to treat and prevent osteoporosis. Biphosphonates include alendronate, which is marketed as Fosamax and risedronate sold to the name Actonel.
Biphosphonates work by entering the body and binding to this met-like substance in bones hydroxy apathy. In doing so, the medication interferes with the activity of bone-destroying osteoclasts. By blocking osteoclasts, bone-building cells known as osteoblasts have an opportunity to play catch up filling in more holes than are being made. Both alendronate and risedronate are approved to treat and prevent osteoporosis in post menopausal women and alendronate can also be prescribed for men. Biphosphonates can also treat osteoporosis that arises from taking corticosteroid medications. When prescribed by your doctor, these medications should be taken first thing in the morning with a full glass of water on an empty stomach. Afterwards, remain upright for half an hour avoiding food and beverages. Following these instructions carefully can prevent heartburn, nausea and trouble swallowing, which are common side effects of biphosphonates.
Another option available only to women is a drug called raloxifene, which is marketed under the brand name Evista. Raloxifene is a member of a drug class called selective estrogen receptor modulators or SERMs. Raloxifene is a proof to prevent and treat osteoporosis in women. It is also a good option for women with a high risk of breast cancer as it can reduce cancer risk by up to 76%. Another drug that can treat although not prevent osteoporosis in both sexes is teriparatide, sold under the name Forteo. Teriparatide is the only treatment that can actually reverse bone loss. Teriparatide is a synthetic version of parathyroid hormone or PTH, which is naturally produced by the body. It helps build new bone by increasing the number and activity of friendly osteoblasts. Teriparatide is available as a once a day injection and is only recommended for people who have osteoporosis and a particularly high risk for fractures. Other medications including hormone therapy and calcitonin are also available to treat osteoporosis although they are used less frequently. While taking osteoporosis medication, never under estimate the importance of prudent weightbearing exercise and the intake of calcium in helping to prevent osteoporosis fractures. Remember not every medication is for everyone. It is important to discuss the pros and cons of every option with your doctor and to follow your physician’s instruction exactly.
Female: Want to learn more, check out other videos and sources on this site for more information.
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