Treatment

Are there medications to treat osteoporosis in the premenopausal years?

At this time, the use of osteoporosis medications for the premenopausal population is limited to individuals that have steroid-induced osteoporosis. Risedronate sodium (Actonel) is approved for the prevention of steroid-induced osteoporosis in premenopausal women. Alendronate sodium (Fosamax) and Risedronate sodium (Actonel) are approved for use in premenopausal women to treat steroid-induced osteoporosis.

How can I protect my bones in the premenopausal years?

One of the most important factors in protecting your bones is to make healthy lifestyle choices. Bone healthy behaviors should begin in your youth and continue throughout your life. The earlier that you take prevention measures, the greater the benefit to your bone health. It is important for all premenopausal women including those with a strong genetic tendency (family history) for osteoporosis to practice healthy lifestyle choices. Practicing healthy lifestyle choices will help you reach your highest peak bone mass and optimize your bone health in adulthood.

Bone healthy actions include:

• Eating a well-balanced diet and getting adequate calcium and vitamin D
• Participating in regular exercise but avoiding excessive exercise
• Taking precautions to protect your bones and prevent falls
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Avoiding smoking and the use of tobacco products
• Speaking to a medical professional if your menstrual periods are absent or irregular
• Avoiding excessive dieting and excessive thinness