26/02/2026
WEAK BONES
Osteoporosis, which means "porous bone," is a condition that causes bones to gradually thin and weaken, increasing their risk of fractures.
What Causes Osteoporosis?
Some loss of bone density is a natural part of aging, you’re at a higher risk of getting the very porous bones and fractures associated with osteoporosis if you:
1. Are thin or have a small frame
2. Smoke, drink more than moderately, or live a sedentary lifestyle
3. Have a family history of hip fracture
4. Had your ovaries removed, especially before age 40
5. Are white or Asian
6. Certain medical conditions that increase bone breakdown:
including kidney disease, Cushing's syndrome, and an overactive thyroid or parathyroid, can also lead to osteoporosis.
7. Steroids and anti-seizure drugs, as well as long-term immobility because of paralysis or illness, can also cause bone loss.
Osteoporosis Treatment
Your doctor may recommend some steps to help you stop more bone loss and lower your risk of fractures. These include stopping smoking if you smoke, cutting down on alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet, and exercising.
If your osteoporosis was caused by a medical condition or medications that you take, your doctor will address this. For example, if one of the side effects of a medication is bone loss, there might be an option to switch medications. This isn’t always possible though. In this case, your doctor will check you regularly to monitor your bone health.
Osteoporosis medications
Osteoporosis medications can help limit bone breakdown and maintain bone density, lowering your risk of an osteoporotic fracture. Most of these drugs have been shown to lower the risk of fractures in your hips and back.
1. Bisphosphonate drugs
2. Teriparatide : A synthetic form of parathyroid hormone for people with osteoporosis who are considered at high risk for fracture. These medications help build bone density.
3. Denosumab :An antibody that prevents the formation of cells that break down bone, resulting in less bone loss.
4. Romosozumab-aqqg :An anti-sclerostin antibody that works to increase bone formation and reduce bone loss.
