Osteoporosis Condition Center Debuts

This month, we introduce a new condition center on www .PharmacyTimes.com covering osteoporosis. The condition affects approximately 1 of 5 women in the United States, and occurs when a patient’s body produces new bone more slowly than it removes old bone. As a result, falls and simple actions are more likely to result in fractures, particularly in the wrist, hip, and spine.

The condition affects men and women of all races, but women are more likely to have it. Additional risk factors include having a small body frame, family history, lowered sex hormone levels, low calcium intake, thyroid problems, consistent use of corticosteroid medications, and eating disorders. Treatment options include intravenous, nasal, and oral medications, and lifestyle changes. Pharmacists can play an important role in emphasizing the importance of medication adherence as well as preventive measures.

Some of the topics covered in the osteoporosis condition center include:

• Indications that bisphosphonates used to prevent osteoporosis may increase the risk of fracture
• The relationship between early menopause and increased risk of osteoporosis
• Genetic variations associated with osteoporosis risk