Treatment of Osteoporosis
The treatment of osteoporosis is to increase bone density and
thereby reduce risk of fractures. The foundation of treatment
is to continue to remain active and to take enough calcium and
vitamin D. You will need to take between 1200 mg and 1500 mg
of calcium every day. You may be able to get most of this in
your diet and take some as a supplement. Whatever calcium
supplement you take, be sure it also has vitamin D. It is
becoming more clear that many women are not getting enough Vitamin
D, ask your doctor to check your Vitamin D level.
A class of medications called bisphosphonates increase bone mass by
decreasing the breakdown of normal bone. The available bisphosphonates
are Fosamax (alendronate) and Actonel (risedronate). These medications can
be taken once a week and should be taken in the morning before any other
medication with a full glass of water. A third one is Boniva (ibandronate)
which can be taken just once a month.
Forteo (teriparatide) is like the normal parathyroid hormone which works
to increase bone growth, building new bone. This is different than
stopping bone breakdown. It is by injection only.
The doctors at ARFP will consider and discuss these treatments with you.
If you have been previously diagnosed with osteoporosis, call 227-6363 to
schedule an
appointment with our doctors to discuss treatment. Bring a
copy of any testing you have.