Fosamax Uses (Cont.)

Fosamax Uses for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, which means "porous bone," is a disease characterized by low bone mass (bone thinning) that leads to fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women are affected by this condition. Fortunately, osteoporosis is a disease that can be prevented and treated.
 
Common causes of osteoporosis include:
 
  • Age-related bone loss
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Long-term corticosteroid use
  • Certain diseases.
     
Race and ethnicity may play a role in developing osteoporosis as well, but more research is needed to determine the connection.
 
Often, osteoporosis treatment is not started until a bone is broken, as there are usually no symptoms of osteoporosis. However, treatment may be started earlier if the disease is detected using a test (see Diagnosing Osteoporosis). In fact, some osteoporosis medications (including Fosamax) can be used for osteoporosis prevention in people who are at high risk for developing the condition (see Risk Factors for Osteoporosis).
 

How Does Fosamax Work?

Fosamax binds to certain cells in bones and slows the down the rate at which they break down. As mentioned, bones are constantly being broken down and rebuilt, and slowing down this process often results in increased bone density.
 

Fosamax Uses in Children

Fosamax is not approved for use in children. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in children. Fosamax has been studied in children as a possible treatment for osteogenesis imperfecta, but has not been shown to be effective for this use.
 
(Fosamax Uses Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;