Osteoporosis is a medical condition that affects the bones, leading to weakness and fractures. It occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both.

The condition often affects older adults, especially women, due to hormonal changes that occur during menopause. However, there are pills one can take to protect their bones and lungs from osteoporosis. In this article, we will discuss the top-rated pills for protecting bones and lungs from osteoporosis.

What pills can protect your bones and lungs from osteoporosis?

There are several types of pills that can help protect your bones and lungs from osteoporosis. Some of them include:.

1. Calcium supplements

Calcium supplements are used to provide additional calcium to the body, which is essential for building and maintaining strong bones.

Calcium is one of the most important minerals for maintaining bone health, and a steady supply can help keep bones strong and healthy. Calcium supplements are available in different forms, including calcium carbonate and calcium citrate.

2. Vitamin D supplements

Vitamin D is essential for the body to absorb and use calcium effectively. Without vitamin D, the body can’t absorb calcium from the diet.

Most people get enough vitamin D from the sun, but those who don’t get enough sunshine or are unable to absorb vitamin D properly may need to take a supplement. Vitamin D supplements are available in two forms: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3.

3. Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonates are a group of drugs that are used to treat osteoporosis by slowing down the rate at which bones are broken down. They do not build new bone but protect existing bone.

Bisphosphonates are available as pills or injections and are often prescribed to people who have a high risk of fractures due to osteoporosis.

4. Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy involves taking estrogen and progesterone to help restore hormone levels in women who have gone through menopause. Hormone therapy can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

However, hormone therapy is not for everyone and can have side effects such as increased risk of blood clots or breast cancer. It is important to consult with a doctor before starting hormone therapy.

5. Raloxifene

Raloxifene is a medication that works by mimicking the effects of estrogen on the body, but without increasing the risk of breast cancer. It helps to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

Raloxifene can have side effects such as hot flashes and leg cramps.

6. Teriparatide

Teriparatide is a medication that is used to treat severe osteoporosis. It is a synthetic version of parathyroid hormone and works by stimulating bone formation.

Teriparatide is given as a daily injection and should only be used for a limited time as it can increase the risk of bone cancer.

7. Denosumab

Denosumab is a medication that is given as an injection every six months. It works by blocking the action of cells that break down bone, helping to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

Denosumab can have side effects such as skin irritation, so it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor.

8. Calcitonin

Calcitonin is a hormone that is used to treat osteoporosis. It works by slowing down the rate at which bone is broken down and reducing the risk of fractures. Calcitonin is available in two forms: nasal spray and injection.

Nasal spray is effective for treating mild osteoporosis, whereas injections are used for severe cases.

9. Strontium ranelate

Strontium ranelate is a medication that is used to treat osteoporosis by stimulating bone formation and reducing bone breakdown. Strontium ranelate is taken as a daily oral supplement.

However, it can have side effects such as gastrointestinal problems and skin rashes, so it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking it.

10. Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids, such as prednisone and dexamethasone, are medications that are commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. However, over time, they can cause bone loss and lead to osteoporosis.

If a person is taking glucocorticoids, their healthcare provider may recommend a bone-protecting medication to reduce the risk of fractures.

Conclusion

Osteoporosis can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are many medications available to help protect bones and lungs.

Depending on the severity of the condition, a healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the above pills to help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of each medication before starting treatment.