Osteoporosis is called porous bone disease, and according to the National Institutes of Health, it currently affects up to 44 million people. Osteoporosis is more common in women, who make up at least 70 percent of the cases, but men are equally as susceptible to bone loss. Osteoporosis is caused by too much bone resorption and not enough bone formation. As people age, bone loss increases at a much higher rate. Many individuals at risk of osteoporosis or who have osteoporosis are prescribed bisphophonates, calcitonins or parathyroid hormone therapy. Proper diagnosis and bone-density tests are required to determine which medication will have the best results. Consult with a doctor.
Bisphosphonates
There are several bisphosphonates used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Boniva and Reclast are two of the most commonly used, with a once-monthly pill and annual injection respectively. Bisphosphonates are anti-resorptive medications that slow the natural bone-tissue dissolving process. Interfering with osteoblast functioning, bisphosphonates stimulate bone-forming cells, which lowers the risk of fractures.
Bisphosphonates are taken on an empty stomach as their effectiveness is reduced with food. Potential side effects include heartburn, muscle and joint pain, and digestive disturbances. Bisphosphonates should not be taken with Forteo, a parathyroid hormone, as both medications reduce the effectiveness of the other, thereby canceling out the benefits.
Calcitonin
Calcitonin comes in two forms, a nasal spray and injection, and known as Fortical and Calcimar. Both nasal and injection forms have shown benefits and are made from salmon bones. According to Dr. James Balch, author of "Prescription for Drug Alternatives," calcitonin is a naturally occurring hormone in humans that regulates blood calcium levels.
The prescription-based calcitonin acts as an inhibitor for bone removal. It also stimulates the bone-formation osteoclasts to strengthen bones. Potential side effects include nausea, nosebleeds and allergic reactions. A doctor should test for allergy to calcitonin before prescribing.
Parathyroid Hormone Therapy
Forteo is the only approved parathyroid hormone therapy used for osteoporosis. Parathyroid hormone is a natural substance produced by the parathyroid to maintain levels of calcium and phosphorous levels in the blood. Parathyroid hormone stimulates new bone growth and activates bone-forming cells. With minor side effects such as dizziness and leg cramping, Forteo has shown much promise in reducing bone loss in osteoporosis patients.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Osteoporosis
- National Institutes of Health: Osteoporosis
- "Prescription for Drug Alternatives"; James F. Balch, MD et al; 2008
