Osteoporosis Prevention And Treatments

I was talking with a friend the other day when she told me that she had started taking Fosamax.  Her doctor had conducted bone density tests, and based on the results, recommended a treatment to improve bone density, more for the purpose of prevention than because there was a substantial problem.  She went on to say she had taken it for a period of time, and early in the treatments, experienced extreme joint pain.  She did some research, and found that others have reported similar side-effects.  The discomfort was so severe that she resolved to quit taking the medication.  As everyone should be aware, the decision to continue or cease drug treatments is a personal one that should be made in conjunction with their doctor.  But I thought it might be worth taking a moment to explore the question of options.

Medications for treating osteoporosis

There are currently three drugs on the market for treating osteoporosis.  They are Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva.  Foxamax and Actonel are taken on a weekly regimen, while Boniva is a once-monthly treatment, when taken orally.  Its important to note that although all three drugs are prescribed for treating osteoporosis, it seems that they are not necessarily expected to reduce the risk of fractures equally throughout the body.  There are several sites that discuss the history and risks of these drugs.

• Facts about Fosamax, Boniva, etc.
• Benefits and risks of Fosamax and other bisphosphonates
• Fosamax tied to risk of increased of heart condition

Alternative ways to build bone density

From what I’ve read, the goal of treating osteoporosis should be to increase bone density.  If this is correct, then one of the knocks against bisphosphonates is that they help build density in existing bones, but inhibit new bone growth.  That being the case, shouldn’t weight-bearing exercises offer a viable alternative to drug treatment?  There is a large body of evidence that suggests strength training promotes increases in bone density.  Taking this route also has been shown to reduce the incidence of falls and slips that can lead to bone fractures, as well as the well-documented emotional benefits.  Some well-noted medical sources positions on this subject are:

• Mayo Clinic:  Exercising with Osteoporosis
• American College of Sports Medicine

Conclusion

I’m not saying that people should avoid taking bisphosphonates, or that someone taking one of these drugs should quit.  These drugs wouldn’t have gotten to market without strong evidence that they provide benefits.  But it also sounds like they’re not a panacea either.  As my wife has said, if there’s an abnormal, oddball side-effect to a drug, she’ll get it.  They might not be the best option for everyone.  You and your doctor should make that decision together.

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