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| Basic Information |
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| Description |
- When osteoporosis (the progressive disease where bone
breakdown increases faster than bone formation) is diagnosed,
a combination of treatment methods are available to stop or
slow down the loss and help rebuild bones. Maintaining bone
health is an important step in preventing bone fractures (especially
of the hip and spine) and subsequent disability that often
occurs in women over age 50.
- Bone-density tests using machines called densitometers
determine the presence or risk of osteoporosis (bone loss).
These tests can show a bone loss of as little as one percent and
indicate whether a woman's bones are healthy or that moderate
to extensive bone loss exists.
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| Medications |
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) consisting of estrogen
plus a progestin or estrogen alone is currently recommended
(to prevent and treat osteoporosis) for all postmenopausal
women unless contraindications exist or the medication is not
tolerated. HRT also offers other health factors, as well (such as
protection against heart problems and some cancers). For most
women the benefits of hormonal replacement will outweigh
the possibility of any risks. For best results, the therapy should
be started right after menopause and continue indefinitely.
- Alendronate (brand name, Fosamax), a nonhormonal drug,
that slows down the loss of bone tissue and increases bone
mass in women with osteoporosis. Take it in the morning at
least 30 to 60 minutes before eating. The tablet is swallowed
with a full glass of water (6 to 8 ounces). To help the medicine
reach the stomach faster and to prevent throat irritation, don't
lie down for 30 minutes after taking it. Any other medications
should be taken at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate.
Side effects may include stomach pain, muscle or joint pain,
and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Long-term safety has not
been established and medical studies are continuing.
- Calcitonin (brand name, Miacalcin), a treatment for postmenopausal
osteoporosis. The exact mechanism of how it
works is not fully understood. It slows down the loss of bone
tissue and increases bone mass in women with osteoporosis. It
comes in the form of a nasal spray. Use one spray per day in a
nostril, alternating nostrils daily. Follow directions on the label
about activating and using the pump supplied with the medication.
A skin test may be performed before beginning treatment
with calcitonin. Side effects can include nasal symptoms (irritation,
dryness, stuffiness or runny, and others).
- Other drugs undergoing testing with approval pending:
Slow-release sodium fluoride, a mineral encapsulated in a
wax tablet. In medical studies, this drug therapy appears to
slow down bone loss and to help build bone. In the past, high
doses of sodium fluoride have caused some unwanted side
effects, but this new slow-release formula appears to avoid
them. Once approved, women taking this drug will need to
have an annual blood test to check levels of fluoride to be sure
it remains under toxic levels.
Calcitriol, a hormone drug, helps with the absorption of calcium
and slows bone loss. It is used in many other countries
for osteoporosis, but has not been approved for this disorder
in the United States. It can cause kidney stones when taken in
high doses. It is approved and used for the treatment of a bone
disorder caused by kidney dialysis.
Other agents are under active investigation for the treatment
of osteoporosis. Some of these are new drugs and others are
existing drugs approved for other purposes, but which also
may help bone loss.
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| Dietary Supplements/b> |
- Calcium is essential for development of normal bone. The
recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for calcium is 1000 mg
each day. Many health experts believe women over age 40
need 1000 to 1500 mg daily. This amount can be achieved
with diet or supplements or both. Sufficient calcium intake is
necessary in addition to any type of prescription medication
that is taken for bone loss.
- Vitamin D is also necessary for maintaining bone density. It is
often difficult to get sufficient vitamin D in unfortified foods or
sunlight exposure. Daily supplementation of 400 to 800 international units
(IU) is usually recommended for postmenopausal women.
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| Diet |
- Eat a healthful diet that follows the adult diet guidelines
established by the U.S. Government. Your doctor may recommend dietary
restrictions for salt, fat, animal protein, alcohol
caffeine or other substances depending on individual circumstances.
- It's important to balance what you eat with physical activity.
If your weight is not in the healthiest range, try to reduce
health risks through better eating and exercise habits.
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| Exercise |
- Physical exercise is important in developing and maintaining
bone strength. Exercise also aids in strengthening back muscles,
improves flexibility and mobility (which can reduce the
risk of falls and bone fractures), and helps one's sense of well-being.
- A basic exercise routine should consist of 30 minutes of aerobic activity
and weight bearing activity at least three (3) times a week
and more often if possible. Brisk walking is a good aerobic
activity. Lifting weights is a weight bearing activity. There is no
one exercise program that suits everyone. Choose one that you
will follow regularly and faithfully.
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| Notify Your Healthcare Provider If |
- You or a family member wants more information about bone building treatment.
- New unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may cause side effects.
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