How is Osteoporosis Treated?

Osteoporosis treatment includes both lifestyle changes and medications. Treatment programs focus on nutrition, exercise, and safety issues to prevent falls that may result in broken bones (see Fall Prevention and Osteoporosis). The doctor may prescribe a medication to slow or stop bone loss, increase bone density, and reduce fracture risk. Available oral medications (pills) include alendronate (Fosamax), raloxifene (Evista), and risedronate (Actonel) for preventing and treating postmenopausal osteoporosis. Teriparatide (Forteo) is a self-injectable medication used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men. Alendronate can also be used to treat osteoporosis in men. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is treated by alendronate and risedronate in men and women (see Understanding Osteoporosis Medications).

Other medications, including estrogen or hormone replacement therapy (ET/HRT), are used to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis (see Hormone Replacement and Osteoporosis), and calcitonin is approved for treatment. Talk to the doctor about these medications. See Treatment of Osteoporosis for more information.