This might include a prescription drug, such as abisphosphonate, to help slow bone loss and preventosteoporosis.
The decision should be made on a case-by-case basis and will depend on your individual condition.
Osteopenia Medications
A number of different medications are FDA-approved for thetreatment of osteoporosis.
Terry Vine / Getty Images
Available biphosphonates include:
Side effects of bisphosphonatesvary based on whether they are used orally or by injection.
Other uncommon side effects includeatrial fibrillationand atypical femur fractures.
These drugs are also thought to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
They may also reduce the risk of hip fractures, but more research is needed.
Possible side effects of SERMS include:
Serious but rare side effects include deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary emboli.
One significant cause of bone loss in menopausal women is the reduction in the amount ofestrogenproduced by the body.
It makes sense then thathormone replacement therapy(HRT) would help reduce bone loss.
As with any medication, you must weigh the risks and benefits of any medication you use.
Calcitonin is available both as a nasal spray and by injection and can reduce the risk of spine fractures.
This drug is usually used only for people with severe osteoporosis who are at a high risk of fractures.
Forteo is the only medication that can actually stimulate the body to grow new bone.
When Is Osteopenia Medication Prescribed?
Not every person with osteopenia has experienced a fragility fracture.
FDA-approved medications for the prevention of osteoporosis can be prescribed to people with osteopenia.
While these medications are effective, some have serious side effects.
For this reason, many healthcare providers hesitate to prescribe osteoporosis medications unless they are absolutely necessary.
Healthcare providers estimate 10-year fracture risk using the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX).
If you have been diagnosed with osteopenia have a careful discussion with your healthcare provider.
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