Question

How will I know what the best remedy or drug is for treating my osteoporosis?

Answer

Osteoporosis is a condition, more common in women than men, that causes bones to become brittle and fragile, making bones more susceptible to breaking. Currently, the only method used routinely to screen for osteoporosis is a DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) test, and unfortunately the pharmaceutical industry has been using DEXA to overdiagnose many women in an effort to expand the market for manufacturers of osteoporosis drugs. NWHN recently produced three different consumer health information about osteoporosis which are linked throughout this post, so definitely check those out for more information!

It is important to note that the DEXA test measures bone density, not bone strength, which overestimates how many women are at risk in order to prevent a small number of fractures. Further, it fails to identify women who may have dense but weak bones. Many women who are diagnosed with osteoporosis are encouraged to take prescription medications that are publicized as the only real way to combat the condition, which is another way Big Pharma has controlled the narrative around osteoporosis treatment and screening.

As a result, many women who are at low risk of experiencing fractures take these prescriptions unnecessarily, even though they may not realize that the side effects and dangers outweigh the severity of their condition. We have received many questions about drugs such as Reclast, Tymlos, and Forteo, and you can find more information on all of these drugs in our treatment consumer health information here. Whether it is a bisphosphonate or a peptide, the side effects may vary for each individual. When consulting your doctor about possible treatment options, it is important to take into account any other medications you may take, medical history, and any other factors that would influence your body’s reaction or lack thereof to a prescription for osteoporosis.

Our treatment consumer health information also references non-drug alternatives in case you want to try a homeopathic method. When getting screened for osteoporosis, asking questions about density vs. strength may be in your best interest so you can better understand the severity of your condition and which treatment options would make the most sense. NWHN is committed to providing fully transparent, helpful information to women regarding osteoporosis given how Big Pharma has pushed for prescription drugs. For more information, check out our consumer health information linked above as well as our recent article from pages 6-7 of our January/February newsletter.

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