What do osteoporosis medications do?
Osteoporosis medications prevent bone loss. According to the Mayo Clinic, doctors most often prescribe drugs known as bisphosphonates.HistoryBone is continually broken down and built back up. This process slows with aging and hormonal changes.SignificanceAccording to HealthyWomen.org, estrogen works with vitamin D, calcium and other minerals to create new bone. Because postmenopausal women have less estrogen, they are at risk for thinning bones.FeaturesBones break down more quickly than they are rebuilt, leading to a weakened state. For that reason, there is a heightened risk for fractures.EffectsBisphosphonates slow down the rate that bone tissue is broken down. The breaking down and rebuilding processes keep pace with each other while preserving bone density.Prevention/SolutionSeveral varieties of bisphosphonates are available by prescription. They differ by route of administration, frequency of dosage and side effects.PotentialOsteoporosis patients may take bisphosphonates for 3 to
