Treatment

In addition to recommending lifestyle changes, doctors may prescribe drug therapy if osteoporosis is diagnosed or if there is an elevated risk of osteoporosis. Today there are a number of effective treatment options available that have been shown to act quickly, to maintain bone density and to reduce the risk of having fractures. It is important that the choice of treatment be tailored to a patient's specific medical needs and lifestyle.

Common treatments that are currently available (although not in all countries) are: bisphosphonates (alendronate, ibandronate, risedronate, zoledronate (zoledronic acid), calcitonin, raloxifene, strontium ranelate, teriparatide and tibolone. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on bone, although caution must be taken with its prescription.

For further detailed information on the anti-fracture and bone-sparing efficacy of these drugs, please read the health professionals section on treatments.

Calcium and vitamin D supplements are also usually prescribed with any osteoporosis treatment, in order to ensure adequate levels and maximum effectiveness of the drug therapy. Sufficient calcium, vitamin D and protein intake not only helps to prevent osteoporosis, it is also important in helping to maintain bone density and muscle function in patients diagnosed with osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D supplements are especially important for individuals at high risk of fracture.

Nutrition and lifestyle factors as well as weight-bearing exercise play an important role in osteoporosis prevention and management. By improving balance, muscle strength and agility, individually tailored exercise programs can also help to prevent falls. Special exercise programs, under professional supervision, can help with rehabilitation and pain relief after a fracture.

Celebrities speak out

“Before I was diagnosed, I don’t think I’d ever heard of a man having osteoporosis. It came as a complete shock to me that men even have it. I come about it by being pro-active, by doing weight bearing exercises, by the supplements, by the actual drug that I particularly use, the kind of food that I eat, and I do try and booze a little less. Osteoporosis was just a word before I actually discovered that I actually had it.” Mark Holden, songwriter and performer

Other major aspects of treatment are psychological and emotional support, which can be provided by health professionals and osteoporosis patient support groups. Such support can be of great help in lessening the feelings of isolation and depression experienced by many patients with severe osteoporosis. Practical help such as advice on how to reduce the risk of falling, assistive devices such as walkers and hip protectors, and techniques for 'safe movement' in everyday activities such as walking, reaching/lifting, housework and gardening, is also very important.