Osteoporosis is a condition where bone density gradually decreases over time, making bones thinner, more brittle, and prone to fractures from even mild trauma. This condition commonly affects the elderly, post-menopausal women, and individuals with long-term use of alcohol, tobacco, or corticosteroids.
Dr. Nguyen Van Tu, from the Internal Medicine - Musculoskeletal Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, explains that current osteoporosis medications are diverse, available in oral, injectable, or intravenous forms. The treatment duration is usually at least 3-5 years. After this period, doctors reassess bone density and consider subsequent treatment options. The reason for this extended duration is the slow process of bone turnover. If medication is stopped before the minimum treatment time, the body cannot accumulate enough medication to restore bone mass and density, leading to a rapid loss of any improved bone quantity.
However, prolonged use of these medications can excessively inhibit bone regeneration, hindering the natural repair of micro-damage. This can lead to rare but serious complications such as jaw osteonecrosis, femur fractures, and esophageal ulcers due to gastrointestinal irritation. After 3-5 years, if bone density has improved well and the risk of fracture is reduced, doctors may discontinue the medication or switch to different types. This approach helps maintain effectiveness and mitigate risks associated with sudden cessation, especially for injectable forms.
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DEXA measurement is a primary method for diagnosing osteoporosis. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital
Dr. Tu notes that each medication type has specific dosages. Oral medications are typically taken weekly or monthly. While common, they can sometimes cause gastrointestinal irritation, requiring patients to strictly adhere to timing and administration methods for optimal effectiveness.
For severe osteoporosis or a high risk of fracture, biological injections or anti-osteoporosis infusions are often prescribed. Biological medications work by inhibiting the RANKL protein, which is responsible for bone destruction. This slows bone resorption and strengthens bones through the body's natural regeneration mechanisms. Patients typically receive these injections once every 6 months.
Intravenous infusions usually involve solutions containing zoledronic acid. This medication is absorbed by the bones, inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts (bone-destroying cells), thereby slowing bone destruction and reducing bone loss. With this method, patients receive the infusion once a year.
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Dr. Tu explains bone density measurement results to a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital
To optimize treatment effectiveness, Dr. Tu emphasizes that patients must not only follow medication instructions but also increase their intake of vitamin D and calcium-rich foods. Regular, moderate exercise is also crucial to boost bone density and strengthen bones.
Patients should consult a doctor before using dietary supplements. Excessive intake can lead to an overload of vitamin D or calcium, increasing the risk of kidney stones, constipation, and calcium accumulation in the blood. Regular follow-up appointments or immediate consultation upon noticing any unusual signs are essential for doctors to timely assess and adjust the treatment regimen if needed.
Phi Hong
