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What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. It is called "the silent disease" because osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. People with osteoporosis often break bones from minor falls. If the disease is severe enough they may also break bones from simple actions, such as sneezing!
Who is at risk?
Everyone has the potential to develop osteoporosis; however, women are four times more likely than men to develop the disease. Postmenopausal women are at the greatest risk since up to 20 percent of their bone mass can be lost within five to seven years after menopause. Generally, as age increases, so does the risk for developing osteoporosis. Other risk factors include smoking, inactive lifestyle, and certain medication use such as steroids or anticonvulsants.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
There are generally no symptoms associated with osteoporosis until a bone is broken.
How can osteoporosis be detected?
Osteoporosis can be detected by measuring bone density in various sites of the body. There are two ways to measure bone density:
1. A DXA (dual x-ray absorptiometry) scan can be preformed at a hospital or doctor's office. Low dose x-ray of two different energies are used to distinguish between bone and soft tissue, giving a very accurate measurement of bone density.
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2. Ultrasound can also be used to measure bone density in a doctor's office or pharmacy. This process uses sound waves to generate images of internal body structures. Portable and easy-to-use ultrasound machines can measure bone density in the ankle.
What are they key players in osteoporosis?
The table below provides the key players in osteoporosis.
How can I help prevent osteoporosis?
Get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
Talk to your health care provider about bone health.
Have a bone density test to determine your risk.
New Osteoporosis Treatment: Reclastâ (zoledronic acid) Injection
How does Reclastâ work?
Reclastâ binds to bones and prevents bone breakdown ultimately leading to an increase in bone mineral density. This action is similar to the oral agents Actonelâ, Fosamaxâ, and Bonivaâ. Reclastâ should always be given along with daily calcium and vitamin D supplements to help maintain healthy bones.
Who should take Reclastâ?
Reclastâ is indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis, and for the treatment of those suffering from an abnormal breakdown of bone (Paget's disease).
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How is Reclastâ given?
Reclastâ is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion once each year. The infusion lasts 15 minutes and can be done at your doctor's office.
Are there side effects of Reclastâ?
The most common side effects of Reclastâ include flu-like illness, fever, muscle or joint pain, and headache. Most side effects occur in the days following treatment and can be relieved by over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Warnings about Reclastâ.
You should not take Reclastâ if you are currently taking Zometaâ (zoledronic acid) as it contains the same ingredient. You should not take Reclastâ if you have low blood calcium, kidney problems, or are allergic to Reclastâ or Zometaâ. Women who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are nursing should not take Reclastâ.
As always, you and your physician should determine if Reclastâ is right for you. For more information, please contact a health care provider or visit: www.bonedensitometers.com, www.nof.org, or www.reclast.com.
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