Arthritis drugs: Osteoporosis Medications

Not so many years ago, women who had or were at risk for the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis had one medication option – estrogen. Because bone mass quickly diminishes when levels of the hormone drop at menopause, replacing estrogen seemed a solution to the bone-loss problem.

While estrogen is still used – and is included in this guide – increasing medication options make osteoporosis treatment possible for men, children and women who don't want to risk estrogen's adverse effects.

In addition to estrogen, drug options for osteoporosis fall into four categories: bisphosphonates (alendronate and risedronate sodium), calcitonin, selective receptor molecules (raloxifene hydrochloride) and the newest category, the bone formation agents (teriparatide). Osteoporosis drugs can slow bone loss, promote bone growth, reduce the risk of fractures and even ease the pain of fractures.

Regardless of the medication your doctor prescribes, ask about additional measures you can take – including a high-calcium diet, vitamin D supplements and bone-building exercise – to further improve bone health.

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