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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder of reduced bone strength that makes fractures more likely after a fall or minor stress.

Raloxifene Tablets

Raloxifene

60mg

Raloxifene 60mg film-coated tablets, used in the management of osteoporosis. A SERM that acts like oestrogen on bone but not on breast tissue.

From$1.02/ tabletView

Fosamax

Alendronic Acid

35 · 70mg

Alendronic acid 35mg and 70mg tablets, the weekly strengths, used in the management of osteoporosis. A bisphosphonate that slows bone resorption.

From$2.55/ tabletView

Key points

  • A low-trauma hip or vertebral fracture can establish high risk even when a bone-density score is not in the osteoporosis range.
  • Treatment choice depends on fracture risk, kidney function, swallowing, calcium balance and whether rapid bone rebuilding is needed.
  • Some medicines require a planned sequence because stopping denosumab or an anabolic agent without follow-on therapy can lose benefit.

The listings below are not automatically appropriate for low bone density; fracture-risk assessment and secondary-cause review should guide treatment.

Measuring risk and causes

DXA measures hip and spine density, while FRAX or similar tools combine clinical factors. Blood tests look for vitamin D deficiency, thyroid, parathyroid, kidney or malabsorption causes. Height loss or back pain may prompt vertebral imaging.

Preventing fractures

Resistance and weight-bearing exercise, adequate protein, calcium and vitamin D, smoking cessation and fall prevention support bone health. Bisphosphonates, denosumab, anabolic agents and selective oestrogen-receptor medicines have different fracture evidence and safety requirements. Response and duration need scheduled review.

When to seek urgent care

Seek urgent care for sudden severe back, hip or thigh pain after minor stress, inability to bear weight, new weakness or numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control.

Further reading