Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become more porous and brittle, and less dense. This means bones tend to break easily and the occurrence of more frequent fractures. Though there is no cure, there are treatments whose primary goal is to strengthen bones to prevent fractures. Popular treatment options for osteoporosis include a combination of medicines and lifestyle changes. The most advocated way to prevent the loss of bone mass is to take prescription medicines.

Here are the popular treatment options for osteoporosis.

1. Bisphosphonates
They are generally the first meds recommended for postmenopausal women. The bisphosphonates are the most prescribed as they have been around the longest and are known for their therapeutic effects. Examples are alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel), ibandronate (Boniva), and others. You need to follow instructions exactly as given when taking these medicines; otherwise, they can cause ulcers in the esophagus.

2. Antibodies
Currently, two antibody drugs Denosumab and Romosozumab are available in the market. Denosumab, in the injectable form, helps maintain bone density by slowing down the breakdown process. Romosozumab, on the other hand, helps increase bone formation. Though FDA approves the drug, it has some severe side effects, such as the risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease.

3. Hormone-related medicines
Some medicines can be prescribed as popular treatment options for osteoporosis because they have hormone-like effects. They are selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as raloxifene (Evista), calcitonin, such as (Fortical, Miacalcin), and parathyroid hormones (PTHs), such as teriparatide (Forteo). Though these drugs are found to significantly build bone back-up and even reverse osteoporosis in some cases, the long-term effects are still under research

4. Hormone therapy
This is also called hormone replacement therapy; it is not one of the popular treatment options for osteoporosis. Generally prescribed for women in menopause, it increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer. It can include estrogen alone or combined with progesterone.

5. Calcium and vitamin D
Both calcium and vitamin D are known to slow down the loss of bone mass. You need to eat foods rich in these nutrients, such as dairy products and dark and green leafy vegetables, and absorb an adequate amount of sunlight. You can also take supplements but consult with your doctor before starting them if you are already taking some medicines.

6. Physical activity
Physical activity in any form helps slow down the age-related bone loss and might even strengthen the bones. It can also help maintain posture and balance, leading to fewer falls and fewer fractures. Ensure to undertake weight-bearing exercises, such as running, aerobics, and muscle-strengthening exercises, such as weightlifting.

Osteoporosis is an incurable disease, but popular treatment options for osteoporosis are available to delay or prevent bone loss and, in some cases, build bone density. If you have osteoporosis, it is best to contact your physician today for the best line of treatment.