The Risks of Prolia As an Osteoporosis Treatment
"My bone cells were compromised from taking Prolia medication. What other treatments do you recommend to help me with osteoporosis?"
Due to its long list of side effects and potential long term risks, Prolia should only be used if other treatment methods have failed or by post-menopausal women who have severe osteoporosis. It is unclear if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Osteoporosis cannot be completely cured or reversed. However, there are measures that can be taken to curb progression and manage symptoms. The National Women’s Health Network advocates that women first try non-drug treatment options, such as certain diet and exercise choices to assist with preventing or reducing the symptoms of osteoporosis. It is important to get adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D in your diet, which help build and preserve your bone strength. Older female adults should get 1,200 mg of calcium per day and 600-800 IU/day of vitamin D. Calcium and vitamin D work together as vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Many foods are fortified with vitamin D, including various cereals and milk. If necessary, vitamin D supplements are available.
Exercise is highly recommended to help prevent osteoporosis and reduce symptoms in patients who already have it. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, hiking, jogging, and stair climbing are suggested by the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Along with muscle-strengthening exercises such as weight lifting, weight machines, or body weight strength workouts. Both types of workouts are recommended for building or maintaining bone density. It is important to note that over-exercising and straining your body during workouts can lead to injury, negative effects, and increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. It is always important to complete workouts in a safe and proper manner, appropriate for your body.
For additional information, we recommend visiting the NWHN osteoporosis treatment page for a list of other FDA-approved osteoporosis medications prior to trying Prolia.
The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained on or available through this website is for general information purposes only.
Evita Almassi, MSW, served as the Communications and Digital Marketing Manager for the NWHN. Her 10+ years in nonprofit communications – especially with social media advocacy campaigns – enabled the NWHN to reach and empower more women in their health education and advocacy journeys.
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