What does osteoporosis mean?

Osteoporosis is a medical condition, in which the overall bone density of the body reduces, resulting in weak bones, prone to pains and fractures. Mostly occurring in women, Osteoporosis is usually a result of calcium deficiency associated with aging, especially, the onset of menopause. It can also be related to family history, inappropriate physical activity, bone damaging accidents, calcium deficient diet during youth, surgical sterilization procedures, hyperthyroidism, strong medicines, and so on.

Osteoporosis Treatment

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

With the onset of menopause in women, the levels of estrogen, a hormone maintaining healthy bone density in the body, falls. Hormone Replacement Therapy works towards restoring this hormone in females. Controversies however, surround its use. For instance, the length of the treatment and its side effects, which could be as serious as cancer, thrombosis, & heart ailments, require further study. 

Bisphosphonates

These drugs decelerate the depletion of bone density, thereby allowing the build-up of mineral deposits for bone strength. Bisphosphonates may manifest certain side effects, such as abdominal pain, indigestion, constipation, the development of ulcerous tendencies, etc. Bisphosphonates can be of following types:
- Alendronic Acid and Risendronate Sodium: work on hip and spine
- Etidronate and Ibandronic Acid: effective at hip area only

Strontium Ranelate

This treatment is meant for women who cannot take Bisphosphonates, due to their side effects. These drugs perform the dual functions of preventing fractures and the restoration of bone density.
 
Raloxifene (Evista)

Raloxifene, meant only for females, belongs to a category of medication called Selective Oestrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM). Its benefits are similar to that of HRT minus its potential side effect like cancer. The risk of a Thrombosis is however high with this drug. In addition, it cannot be taken within the initial five years of the onset of menopause.

Calcitonin

This hormone, naturally produced by thyroid gland, either is injected directly in the blood stream, or is assimilated through nose as a spray. It is mostly useful for people, not compatible with the above-mentioned treatments.

Calcitriol

If osteoporosis is a result of the intake of steroids in the form of medication, this is a cogent cure. But, it is more focused on spinal injuries and is not very effective for hip area.
 
Teriparatide

This strong drug is administered as daily injection, very similar to insulin shots. It acts more towards promoting bone density than preventing loss. Like Calcitriol, it too has localized effect over spinal area.

Hip Protectors

These are external cushions to act as shock absorbers and prevent fractures, should the person stumbles or falls.

In addition to medication, people suffering from osteoporosis should supplement their diet with milk, cheese, curd, tomatoes, cod liver oil, fish, and so on. In addition, the intake of caffeine or aerated drinks should be minimized. Despite the ensuing discussion on the available treatments of osteoporosis, the best way to deal with it remains prevention.