Osteoporosis : Treatment & Therapy (2)

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small-protelos 5. Strontium Ranelate (Protelos)

Strontium Ranelate is the first osteoporosis treatment which has both anti-resorptive and bone forming properties. It is known as a dual action bone agent (DABA), as it slows down the action of cells which remove old bone as well as increasing the formation of new bone.

It is available as a 2g sachet of powder, which is dissolved in a glass of water. It is taken daily at bedtime, at least 2 hours after eating. If on calcium supplements, then these should also be taken at least 2 hours before.

6. Parathyroid hormone (Teriparatide)

This is a drug which stimulates the formation of new bone.

  • It is produced in an insulin type pen and is given as a daily injection which you are taught to give yourself.
  • It is currently available as an 18 month treatment and is only prescribed by specialist osteoporosis clinics.
  • It is usually used in post-menopausal women who have been diagnosed as having severe osteoporosis and fractures.

Prescription of this drug depends on several factors including the severity of osteoporosis, fracture history and the response to other treatments.

7. Calcium & Vitamin D supplements

Adequate calcium and vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth. The best way of getting enough calcium is in the diet as it is more readily absorbed.

However, supplements can be beneficial, particularly in older people, the frail and housebound, where appetites may be poor and exposure to sunlight is limited.

They may also be of benefit in those who do not like or cannot tolerate dairy products. The recommended intake of calcium for adults is 700mgs daily although more (1000 – 1200mg daily) is recommended for people with osteoporosis. Adequate Vitamin D is necessary for calcium to be absorbed properly.

In conclusion

Osteoporosis is a disease which is becoming increasingly common as we now live much longer and have a growing elderly population. It is not however an inevitable consequence of old age or in women, the menopause.

Many factors determine our own osteoporosis risk; genetics, how well peak bone mass is achieved in younger years, age of menopause, how active we are and what our diet and lifestyle is like. It is however preventable and it is never too late to do something to protect our bones.

Tagged as: age, bone, Calcium, diet, History, Hormone, increasing, Lifestyle, Osteoporosis, prescription, strong, supplements, treatment, vitamin, way, Women

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