If you have osteoporosis, your physician may ask you to take a prescription medicine to help your bones get stronger. Taking your medications can help you prevent problems.

The most common medicines used to treat osteoporosis are called bisphosphonates. These are sold under brand names such as Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva. A generic version of Fosamax will be available next year.

Bisphosphonates come in once-weekly and once-monthly forms. They can help protect against bone loss. It is important to also take calcium if you take a bisphosphonate pill. Talk with your physician or pharmacist to learn more.

—Kelvin Li, Pharm.D., clinical pharmacist, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey