Osteoporosis is condition that features loss of the normal density of bone. Osteoporosis leads to literally abnormally porous bone that is more compressible like a sponge than dense like a brick. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone leading to an increase in the risk of breaking bones (bone fracture). Normal bone is composed of protein collagen and calcium. Osteoporosis depletes both the calcium and the protein from the bone, resulting in either abnormal bone quality or decreased bone density. Bones that are affected by osteoporosis can fracture with only a minor fall or injury that normally would not cause a bone fracture. The fracture can be either in the form of cracking (as in a hip fracture) or collapsing (as in a compression fracture of the vertebrae of the spine). The spine, hips, and wrists are common areas of osteoporosis-related bone fractures, although fractures can also occur in other skeletal areas such as the ribs. Osteoporosis is condition that features loss of the normal density of bone. Osteoporosis leads to literally abnormally porous bone that is more compressible like a sponge than dense like a brick. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone leading to an increase in the risk of breaking bones (bone fracture). Normal bone is composed of protein collagen and calcium. Osteoporosis depletes both the calcium and the protein from the bone, resulting in either abnormal bone quality or decreased bone density. Bones that are affected by osteoporosis can fracture with only a minor fall or injury that normally would not cause a bone fracture. The fracture can be either in the form of cracking (as in a hip fracture) or collapsing (as in a compression fracture of the vertebrae of the spine). The spine, hips, and wrists are common areas of osteoporosis-related bone fractures, although fractures can also occur in other skeletal areas such as the ribs.

Medications That Prevent Bone Loss and Breakdown : Currently, the most significant medications for osteoporosis and the only ones approved by the FDA for use in the United States are the anti-resorptive agents, which prevent bone breakdown. The bone is a living dynamic structure; it is constantly being removed (resorbed) and rebuilt. This process is an essential part of maintaining the normal calcium level in the blood. When the rate of resorption exceeds that of rebuilding over time, osteoporosis results. Anti-resorptive medications inhibit bone removal (resorption), thus tipping the balance in favor of bone rebuilding and increasing bone density. Estrogen replacement therapy is one example of an anti-resorptive agent. Others include alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel), raloxifene (Evista), calcitonin (Calcimar), and parathyroid hormone/teriparatide (Forteo). Alendronate (Fosamax) is a biphosphonate anti-resorptive medication. Alendronate is approved for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis as well as for osteoporosis that is caused by cortisone-related medications (glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis). Alendronate has been shown to increase bone density and reduce fractures in the spine, hips, and arms. In addition, a new once-a-week dose schedule has been approved for alendronate to prevent and treat postmenopausal osteoporosis. Alendronate is the first osteoporosis medication also approved for increasing bone density in men with osteoporosis, either in a daily or a weekly dose schedule. Alendronate is generally well tolerated with few side effects. One side effect of alendronate is irritation of the esophagus (the food pipe connecting the mouth to the stomach). Inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) and ulcers of the esophagus have been reported infrequently with alendronate use. To reduce side effects and to enhance abortion of the medicine, alendronate should be taken in the morning, on an empty stomach, thirty minutes before breakfast, and with at least 8 ounces (240 ml) of water. Taking the pill sitting or standing minimizes the chances of the pill being lodged in the esophagus. Patients should also remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the pill to avoid reflux of the pill into the esophagus.

Osteoporosis Treatment : The goal of osteoporosis treatment is the prevention of bone fractures by stopping bone loss and by increasing bone density and strength. Although early detection and timely treatment of osteoporosis can substantially decrease the risk of future fracture, none of the available treatments for osteoporosis are complete cures. In other words, it is difficult to completely rebuild bone that has been weakened by osteoporosis. Therefore, prevention of osteoporosis is as important as treatment. Osteoporosis treatment and prevention measures are: Life style changes including quitting cigarette smoking, curtailing alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and consuming a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D. Estrogen replacement therapy for postmenopausal women and women with other low estrogen conditions. Medications that stop bone loss and increase bone strength, such as alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel), raloxifene (Evista), calcitonin (Calcimar), and teriparatide (Forteo).