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Do you take medication for osteoporosis? Should you be taking medication for osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is the natural process of bone loss; this means our bones become thinner and shorter. Osteoporosis is caused by increasing age, decreased activity and numerous other factors. Every postmenopausal woman should be screened every year, but men should be screened as well. If you experience back pain, decreased height, or your back is beginning to curve, you may consider being screened for osteoporosis. Treating osteoporosis means you will be less likely to break a bone in your arms, legs, hip or back.
There are many options available to you for treating osteoporosis. Perhaps you are already taking one of these medications. Like typical medications to treat blood pressure or heartburn, there is a daily medication for osteoporosis. However, there is also medication that can be taken once every week, once every month or even once every 3 months. These drugs were developed to be more convenient and easy for you. All of these treatments are proven to be as effective as the daily medication. We will review all of these therapies individually.
Fosamax® 70mg and Actonel® 35mg are both taken once every week. These drugs have been available for many years, but are not yet available as generics. They may be taken any day as long as the
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day is the same every week. We suggest Sunday morning to make it easy to remember. It is also important to take these medications first thing in the morning before any food, drink or other medications. Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of plain water to make sure the tablet goes all the way to your stomach. After taking this medication you must remain standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes. In addition, you must not eat, drink or take any other medications during this 30 minute period. If you are unable to stand or sit upright or you have trouble swallowing, you should not take this medication.
Boniva® 150mg is a new drug that may be taken once every month. You should mark this day on your calendar for each month to make it easier to remember. Just like the weekly medication, you must take Boniva® in the morning with a full glass of water following all the same precautions. The only difference is you must stay upright for one full hour after taking this medication. If you experience unusual heartburn after taking Boniva®, Fosamax® or Actonel®, stop taking the medication and talk to your physician about alternatives.
Most people are very happy taking these oral medications and have no side effects as long as they are careful to follow the instructions. However, there are some people who are unable to tolerate the tablet, have difficulty swallowing or cannot sit
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