Osteoporosis is a condition when the bones turn brittle over a period of time and break easily even with a slight pressure or bend. This generally happens in the bones of the wrist, spine and hips which become fragile after reaching a certain age when the bones start losing their mass. When we are young, bones renew themselves constantly and gain mass which stops increasing after the age of 25 years.

Osteoporosis cannot be completely cured or reversed but it can definitely be managed through diet, exercise and medications. The bones need to be strengthened to prevent further loss and fractures. Medication plays an important role in the rebuilding of bone mass.

Types of osteoporosis treatments

Treating osteoporosis involves treatment of fractures, preventing them and using medicines to strengthen the bones. The extent of osteoporosis is determined based on the outcome of a Bone Mineral Density Scan (DEXA OR DXA Scan). The possible treatment process depends upon a host of factors which include-

• age
• sex
• tendency of fractures
• previous history of injuries, if any

Treatment is advised when one is diagnosed with osteoporosis and this usually happens only when a fracture has already happened as there are no early symptoms of osteoporosis. You may or may not need medications but sufficient levels of Vitamin D and calcium need to be maintained. A variety of medications are available to treat osteoporosis which either slow down bone loss or rebuild bone mass that are decided after due consideration to the following factors-

• age
• bone mineral density
• risk factors

Medications for treatment of osteoporosis:

Bisphosphonates

– They slow down the rate of loss of bone mass in the body. They help to maintain bone density and thus reduce the instances of fractures. Bisphosphonates may be administered intravenously or orally in the form of medicines. They need 6 to 12 months to show a visible effect and need to be continued for a period of 5 years or more. They do have some side effects such as irritation in the food pipe and problems swallowing. Some medications prescribed are:

• alendronate
• ibandronate
• etidronate
• zolendronic acid

Strontium Ranelate

– It is used as an alternate when bisphosphonates are unsuitable for some patients. It is generally ingested in powder form with water. It is known to be effective in both the breaking down of the cells of bones and creation of new cells for the bones. Side effects include nausea and diarrhoea and allergic skin reactions in some people.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERMs)

– They are a type of estrogen boosting hormone which is generally used to treat postmenopausal women. It helps to reduce fracture risk and maintain the density of bones. Side effects that are usually observed are cramps in the legs and hot flashes.

Calcium and Vitamin D supplements

– Bones are essentially made of calcium so having calcium plays an important role in having healthy bones. Minimum requirement of calcium recommended is 700 mg per day which can be met through a calcium-rich diet. In case of osteoporosis, additional supplements need to be taken. Vitamin D is needed for absorption of calcium. A daily dosage of 10 mcg is recommended per day. Since it is not naturally present in the body, a supplement in the form of a medicine needs to be taken.

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