Medicines and products for osteoporosis

Medicines can lower fracture risk in people with osteoporosis. Choice depends on your age, sex, bone density, fracture history and other health conditions. Always use them under a doctor's guidance.

Basic supplements

• Calcium and vitamin D: often prescribed to fill dietary gaps
• Doses should be set by your doctor, based on diet and blood tests

Common prescription medicines

• Bisphosphonates: alendronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid. They slow bone loss. Alendronate tablets are taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, and you stay upright for 30 minutes. Rare side effects include jaw and thigh bone problems, so a dental check is advised.
• Denosumab: an injection every 6 months. It must not be stopped suddenly because bone loss can rebound.
• Raloxifene and hormone therapy: for selected postmenopausal women
• Teriparatide and other bone-building medicines: for severe disease
• Testosterone for men with proven deficiency

Ayurvedic and herbal products

Asthishrinkhala, Laksha, Ashwagandha and Guggulu products are sold for bone health. Evidence is limited, and quality varies. They do not replace prescribed medicines, and some interact with other drugs.

Safety points

• Do not stop bone medicines on your own
• Tell your dentist before dental surgery
• Report new thigh or groin pain, jaw pain or difficulty swallowing

See a doctor if you have a new fracture while on treatment.

When to get help

Speak with your doctor or an orthopaedic, endocrinology or rheumatology clinic if you have had a fracture from a minor fall, lose height, or develop a stooped back. Checking bone health early, with a DEXA scan where advised, lets you start the right plan before a break happens.

Remember

Medicines work best with calcium, vitamin D, exercise and fall prevention.