Review and Update on Osteoporosis

Other areas of osteoporosis management focus on monitoring drugs patients take for this condition. Stopping treatment may be necessary in some cases. The decision to start and stop therapy requires careful consideration.

Treatment for osteoporosis includes supplements, medications, and exercise. There are several different types of drugs used depending on the cause of the osteoporosis.

Oral bisphosphonates such as Fosamax or Boniva are commonly used for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates help slow the body's resorption of bone. Fosamax and Actonel are prescribed for osteoporosis caused by long-term corticosteroid use.

Patients should be counseled to stay active, take calcium and vitamin D, and avoid excess alcohol. A physical therapist can assess patients for risk of falls and provide ways to avoid falls that could lead to fractures. Exercise to improve muscle strength and balance can be very helpful.

Complex cases may be referred to an osteoporosis specialist. Patients who continue to lose bone mineral density (BMD) while on medications or who have fractures but normal BMD may need to see a specialist. Patients on drugs that increase the risk of osteoporosis may also benefit from the care of a specialist trained in the management of such cases.