References
- ^Karaguzel G, Holick MFDiagnosis and treatment of osteopenia.Rev Endocr Metab Disord.(2010-Dec)
- ^Varacallo M, Seaman TJ, Jandu JS, Pizzutillo POsteopeniaStatPearls.(2022-10)
Medications are generally reserved for people with osteopenia who have a particularly high risk of fractures (as determined by a clinician). People with an osteopenia T-score (−1 to −2.5) and a 10-year fracture risk of 20% or more (measured using tools like the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool, FRAX) may be started on medication to increase bone density.[1][2] These same medications are used for the treatment of more severe bone loss or osteoporosis. The most commonly used medications are bisphosphonates (risedronate, alendronate, etc.), which reduce bone breakdown; however, prolonged use can increase the risk of atypical fractures of the femur bone, and therefore continuous use is generally limited to 3 to 5 years. Other medications include estrogen and/or progestin hormone-replacement therapies, selective estrogen receptor modulators (raloxifene), calcitonin, teriparatide, and denosumab.[1][2]