Osteoporosis FAQs

Medications That Help Prevent Osteoporosis

Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonate

Fosamax®

Inhibits the cells in the skeleton that break down bone; decreases bone loss and allows bone mass to increase

Gastrointestinal problems: musculoskeletal pain and/or headache


Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)

Evista®

Binds to the same receptor in bone as estrogen binds, and so mimics estrogen’s beneficial effects on bone density

Hot flashes, leg cramps


Calcitonin

Miacalcin®

Prescription nasal spray for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women more than 5 years after menopause for which estrogens are not an option

Nasal symptoms (runny nose, crusting, nosebleed, etc.), back and/or joint pain, and headache


Teriparatide (PTH 1-34)

Fortéo®

Teriparatide is a man-made form of the active part of a natural hormone that is injected by the patient. It works by increasing bone mass and strength which decreases the chance of getting a fracture

Dizziness, leg cramps, angina, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, constipation, sluggishness, angina