Several medicines can help increase bone density, slow or stop bone loss, and lower fracture risk. But they can have risks as well as benefits. Your physician can help you decide whether medicine might be appropriate for you.

Here is a closer look at some of the medications prescribed today:

• Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed treatment for osteoporosis. They can help increase bone mass and reduce the risk for fracture. These are often prescribed under the brand names Actonel, Fosamax, and Reclast.
• Calcitonin slows bone loss and increases bone density. It is sold under the brand names Fortical and Miacalcin. Calcitonin is used to treat both men and women and is available as a nasal spray.
• Selective estrogen receptor modulators such as raloxifene (brand name Evista) are used only in women. These medications slow bone thinning and can help increase bone thickness.
• Parathyroid hormone, offered under the brand name Forteo, encourages bone growth. It is used to treat men and postmenopausal women and is available as an injection you can give to yourself.

Osteoporosis Medication Alert
If you take a bisphosphonate and notice severe pain in your bones, joints, or muscles, talk with your physician right away. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), bisphosphonates such as Actonel, Fosamax, and Reclast may be linked to bone, joint, or muscle pain in some people. This pain can occur days, months, or years after a person starts to take bisphosphonates.