Osteoporosis Reference Guide

Osteoporosis Medications

There are a number of Osteoporosis medications available on the market today. Here is a sample:

Bisphosphonates

Alendronate Sodium (Fosamax)

Approved for both the prevention and treatment of post-menopausal Osteoporosis, Alendronate reduces bone loss and risk of fractures while increasing bone density.

Alendronate Sodium Plus 2,800 IU Vitamin D3 (Fosamax Plus D)

This drug is approved for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and also for treatment for men with osteoporosis.

Ibandronate Sodium (Boniva)

Approved for both the prevention and treatment of post-menopausal Osteoporosis, Ibandronate Sodium reduces bone loss and risk of fractures while increasing bone density.

Risedronate Sodium (Actonel)

Approved for both the prevention and treatment of post-menopausal Osteoporosis, Risedronate Sodium reduces bone loss and risk of fractures while increasing bone density. It is also approved for use in men and women to prevent and/or treat glucocorticoid-induced Osteoporosis.

Side Effects of Bisphosphonates

Side effects may include gastrointestinal problems, abdominal pain or muscle aches, nausea, heartburn, or irritation of the esophagus.

Calcitonin (Miacalcin, Calcimar, Fortical)

Calcitonin is a natural human hormone attributed to calcium regulation and bone metabolism. Calcitonin reduces the risk of spinal fractures in post-menopausal women.

Injectable calcitonin may cause an allergic reaction with side effects such as flushing of the face and hands, frequent urination, nausea and a skin rash. Side effects for nasal Calcitonin may include nasal irritation, backache, bloody nose, and headaches.

Estrogen Therapy (ET) and Hormone Therapy (HT)

Estrogen and Hormone therapies are used to help prevention of osteoporosis by reducing bone loss and increasing bone density in post-menopausal women. When estrogen is taken alone, it can increase a woman's risk of developing cancer. To eliminate this risk, it is combine with HT. Side effects may include vaginal bleeding, breast tenderness, mood imbalance and gallbladder problems.

Raloxifene (Evista)

Raloxifene is approved for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Raloxifene is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) that was developed to provide the beneficial effects of estrogen without their potential disadvantages. Raloxifene increases bone mass and can reduce the risk of spine fractures. Side effects may include hot flashes and deep vein thrombosis.