Alendronate sodium is a drug indicated to treat postmenopausal and steroid-induced osteoporosis. It belongs to the class of drugs known as biophosphonates. It increases bone mass by altering the bone cycle of bone formation and breakdown, notes RxList.com. Alendronate sodium use has been linked to a rare disorder called osteonecrosis which is characterized by bone loss in the jaw. Some patients may prefer to try an alternative drug for osteoporosis.
Calcitonin-Salmon
Calcitonin-salmon is a nasal spray indicated to treat osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. It works by preventing bone cell breakdown increasing bone mass. Although calcitonin is a human hormone, it is also found in salmon. According to MedlinePlus, it is important that patients taking calcitonin-salmon get enough vitamin D and calcium; dietary supplements may be necessary. Calcitonin-salmon nasal spray may cause side effects including swelling of the tongue, itching, hives and a skin rash, notes MedlinePlus.
Raloxifene
Raloxifene is a type of hormone replacement therapy. It belongs to the class of drugs known as selective estrogen receptor modulators. According to the UK National Health Service, raloxifene works by targeting specific sites in bone tissue, reducing the risk of bone fracture and increasing bone density. Raloxifene is generally well-tolerated although some women may experience leg cramps and fluid retention. The UK National Health Service notes it may cause hot flashes when first taken, but this usually subsides over time. Hormone replacement therapies including raloxifene may be associated with a very small risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.
Forteo
Teriparatide is an injectable drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2001. It is indicated to treat osteoporosis in both men and women. The drug is a synthetic form of the human parathyroid hormone and works by regulating bone metabolism. According to the website, Better Bones, teriparatide reduces the fracture risk substantially more than alendronate sodium. Drugs.com notes that teriparatide is associated with an increased risk of bone cancer in animal studies. It is not yet know whether this risk extends to humans. Common side effects include leg cramps, joint pain, nausea and mild dizziness.
References
- RxList.com: Fosamax
- Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management;" Long-term treatment with bisphosphonates and Their Safety in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis; M. Pazianas et al; July 2010
- MedlinePlus: Calcitonin Salmon Nasal Spray
- NHS Tayside: Raloxifene (Evista) in Osteoporosis
- Better Bones: Forteo --- Is This Bone Drug Too Good To Be True?
Member Comments