The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that osteoporosis threatens the health of as many as 44 million Americans. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become thin or brittle. Because bone is a living tissue, it's continually being renewed. In osteoporosis, bone tissue is broken down more quickly than it's built back up. Osteoporosis drugs can be given to people who already have osteoporosis, and to people with low bone density who are at risk for developing osteoporosis.
Ibandronate
Ibandronate is sold under the brand name Boniva. It's a bisphosphonate drug. Bisphosphonates increase bone mass by suppressing osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue and return the bone minerals to the bloodstream. The IV dose of ibandronate is 3mg given every three months in a doctor's office.
Zoledronic Acid
Zoledronic acid is the generic name for the prescription drug Reclast. It's also a bisphosphonate drug, given by IV every year to people who already have osteoporosis, and every other year to people at risk for developing osteoporosis. Before administering zoledronic acid, your doctor should perform a blood test to check your kidney function and calcium levels.
Teriparatide
Parathyroid hormone is secreted naturally by the parathyroid gland. The role of parathyroid hormone is to increase the rate of bone turnover. Over time, parathyroid hormone increases the rate at which bone is broken down. When small doses of parathyroid hormone are given periodically, however, it increases the buildup of bone tissue. Teriparatide is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone sold under the brand name Forteo. Patients inject teriparatide themselves each day. Teriparatide can be given for a maximum of two years. Another type of medication should be given after that.
Calcitonin
Calcitonin is a hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. Its job is to help regulate the amount of calcium in the blood. One way it accomplishes this is by reducing the rate at which bone tissue is broken down. Calcitonin injection is sold under the brand name Miacalcin. It can be injected under the skin or into the muscle. You may go to the doctor's office to receive your injection, but some people are able to do it themselves. The dose of calcitonin injection varies.
References
- Basic and Clinical Pharmacology; Bertram Katzung; 2007
- National Osteoporosis Foundation
- U.S. Pharmacist magazine: Osteoporosis: A Preventable Part of Aging
