Types of Osteoporosis

Fosamax (alendronate) is a bisphosphonate (bis FOS fo nayt) medicine that alters bone formation and breakdown in the body. This can slow bone loss and may help prevent bone fractures. This can slow bone loss and may help prevent bone fractures.

It is a bisphosphonate that can increase bone strength and reduce fractures in the hip, spine, wrist, arm, leg, or rib. The most common side effects include bone pain, nausea, and vomiting. People whose kidneys don’t work very well should avoid it or use it with caution.

Calcitonin-salmon (Miacalcin, Fortical) is a man-made version of the hormone calcitonin. Calcitonin-salmon is prescribed to treat osteoporosis (postmenopause), Paget's disease of the bone, and hypercalcemia.

Boniva (ibandronate) is a bisphosphonate medicine that alters bone formation and breakdown in the body. This can slow bone loss and may help prevent bone fractures. Boniva is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in women after menopause.

Risedronate is in a class of drugs called bisphosphonates used for the treatment of Paget's disease of bone (in which the formation of bone is abnormal) and in persons with osteoporosis (in which the density and strength of bones are reduced).

Raloxifene belongs to a class of drugs called selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). It is FDA-approved for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and to reduce risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women at high risk or with osteoporosis.

Forteo (teriparatide) is the only FDA-approved osteoporosis medication that builds bone. WebMD takes a quick look at this drug.

Reclast (zoledronic acid) is a prescription drug used to treat osteoporosis in men, postmenopausal women, and Paget's disease. Reclast also is used to prevent osteoporosis. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, and pregnancy and breastfeeding safety information are provided.