Osteoporosis treatment

Bisphosphonates

These are the most common bone medicines. They slow down the loss of bone.

• Alendronic acid or risedronate tablets, usually taken once a week
• Zoledronic acid, given as a drip into a vein once a year

Tablets must be taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, with a full glass of plain water, while sitting or standing upright. Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking anything else, or taking other medicines.

Tell your dentist you take a bisphosphonate. Rarely, they can cause problems with the jaw bone, so regular dental checks matter.

Other medicines

• Denosumab, an injection every 6 months. It should not be stopped without a plan, because bone loss can speed up quickly afterwards.
• Teriparatide or romosozumab, injections for people with very high risk, usually started by a specialist
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can protect bones in women around the menopause

Calcium and vitamin D

Your doctor may suggest calcium and vitamin D supplements, especially if you do not get enough from food and sunlight. Everyone in the UK is advised to consider a vitamin D supplement in autumn and winter.

Treating fractures

Broken bones are treated in the usual way, with casts, surgery or pain relief. After a break, you should be offered a check of your bone health, often through a fracture liaison service.