Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak, fragile and subject to breaks. Doctors at the National Osteoporosis Foundation report that left untreated, bones in the wrists, hips and spine are most likely to succumb to fractures. Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men because they can lose up to 20 percent of their bone mass during and after menopause. While there is no cure for the bone loss, there are a number of medications used to prevent and treat the condition.
Biophosphates
Alendronate is a biophosphate drug that is sold under the brand name of Fosamax. Fosamax typically is taken once a week in pill form at least 30 minutes prior to ingesting any other food or drinks. Patients must remain in an upright position for 30 minutes as well. Fosamax and its generic derivatives are mostly safe, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic, although there is an increased risk of developing a rare jaw disorder called osteonecrosis. The jaw can become swollen and infected and the bone becomes exposed. The jaw disease has been linked to those taking Fosamax orally and by injections, as well as in patients receiving chemotherapy in addition to the bone density drug.
Ibandronate
Ibandronate is drug meant to prevent the progression of osteoporosis in the brand name Boniva. Boniva is available in a tablet form that is taken once a month. Patients taking Boniva must wait 60 minutes before taking any other food or drink, although waiting longer than an hour can allow more of the medicine to be absorbed. Ibandronate also can be administered by injection once every three months. Doctors at Mayo Clinic say that side effects such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, wheezing and pounding in the ears should be reported to a doctor. Common side effects that usually resolve themselves after a short time include diarrhea, headache and loss of voice.
Risedronate
Actonel and Actonel with calcium are brands that are made with risedronate. In addition to treating post-menopausal women, risedronate also is used to treat men and women who develop osteoporosis from long-term steroid use or those who have Paget's disease of the bone. Food and beverage must be avoided for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel, as they will decrease the absorption of the drug. Side effects of risedronate include difficulty swallowing, severe heartburn or pain in the back of the sternum.
Calcitonin
Calcitonin, marketed under the brand names Fortical and Miacalcin, are recommended for treating osteoporosis in women who have been menopausal for at least five years. Doctor Jennifer Briggs at Breastcancer.org reports that calcitonin can be used in conjunction with other drug therapies such as Fosamax for patients with severe bone loss. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that calcitonin is designed to mimic the natural hormone in the body that reduces bone resorption. The drug is especially useful for preventing spine fractures and can help alleviate pain from bone fractures. While an injection is available, calcitonin typically is administered by means of a nasal spray. Side effects are minimal or nonexistent for most patients although calcitonin can cause diarrhea, an increase in urination and allergic reactions.
