Okay, so now you have optimized everything possible, it’s time to take a close look at medicines. The general measures for bone health are important but if you are at high risk they are not sufficient to decrease your fracture risk. Unless you are rapidly losing bone or just broken a bone, you don’t need to feel rushed to make a decision about medicines.
You should schedule appointment with your doctor to discuss your options. Depending on your individual situation one or two medicines may be better choices than the others. Weigh the benefits and risk of each potential choice. You don’t need to leave your doctor’s office with a prescription if you’re not ready to make a decision.
Remember what ever you choose is starting place. It doesn’t mean that’s what you may be taking forever. You may switch to something else after a couple years. New options will be available in the future. In addition, with treatment your risk may be lowered to the point you can discontinue medicine.
Here’s a list of the FDA-approved medicines for osteoporosis:
Bisphosphonate class makes up the largest group of medicines available. These medicines work by slowing down bone turnover and the breakdown of bone. Two of the four compounds are available in generic forms.
Alendronate
- generic alendronate
- Binosto® (an effervescent tablet that dissolves in water)
- Fosamax®
- Fosamax plus D®
Ibandronate
- generic ibandronate
- Boniva®
Risedronate
- Actonel®
- Atelvia® (same medicine as Actonel but taken after breakfast)
Zoledronic acid
- Reclast®
Other Osteoporosis Medicines that Work by Slowing Down the Bone Breakdown
Raloxifene
- Evista®
Denosumab
- Prolia®
Calcitonin
- Fortical®
- Miacalcin®
Osteoporosis medicines that works by directly increasing bone building cells called osteoblasts (only one option)
Teriparatide
- Forteo®