|
There are several ways to treat osteoporosis. |
|
| |
| It is always important to reduce risk factors, so |
| |
- Giving up smoking
- Increasing weight bearing exercise and
- Improving our diet
Are all extremely helpful if you are trying to treat osteoporosis.
|
| |
| |
Raloxifene is, a Selective Oestrogen Receptor Modulator. |
| |
This works on the oestrogen receptors on bone, but not on the receptors in the breasts. It is supposed to be much safer as far as the risk of breast cancer is concerned. |
| |
It does not help "hot flushes", in fact it may make them worse, so women in their 50's may find it hard to use. |
| |
Calcium & Vitamin D tablets have been shown to improve bone density and prevent fractures. |
| |
They are particularly important if your diet is low in calcium or if you do not get a lot of sunlight (for example people who are housebound). Older people may find they are easier to take and do not have many side effects, unlike HRT or the Biophosphonates. |
| |
There is a group of tablets called Bisphosphonates, which are very good at improving bone strength. |
| |
The oldest one of these is called Didronel PMO. This is taken as a course of 14 active tablets followed by 76 calcium tablets. This course is repeated every 90 days. |
| |
The newer bisphosponates, Alendronate (Fosamax) and Risendronate (Actonel) seem to be better for some people. |
| |
They can both be taken either daily or just once a week. It is very important to take them exactly as the instructions suggest, otherwise they are not absorbed properly and will not do their job.
|
| |
You need to take a calcium and Vitamin D tablet every day with these 2 drugs. |
| |
Your doctor will choose one of the biophosphonates for you, and if it doesn't suit you, you would be able to try a different one. |
| |
Bisphosphonates are only used for people who have osteoporosis or who have already broken a bone due to low bone density. |
| |
If after a time your results improve as a result of taking biophosphonates it may be suggested that you stop the treatment. This is because as yet we do not know the long-term effects of using them, so we are limiting their use to the time when you will get most benefit. |
| |
If you do stop the treatment it is important that you keep going with exercise and extra calcium. |
| |
If you have any worries about your medication talk to your doctor or practice nurse before stopping it, as they may be able to reassure you or find an alternative. |
| |
HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (HRT)
HRT is no longer a recommended treatment for Osteoporosis for women over the age of 50. It is indicated for women who have had an early menopause as it will help to protect their bones.It can also be used to treat menopausal symptoms like hot flushes. |
