Medicines Used for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones so that they break more easily. It develops slowly and often causes no symptoms until a bone breaks, commonly in the wrist, hip or spine. Calcium, vitamin D and exercise support bone health, and a doctor decides whether medicines are needed.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
Medicines used for Osteoporosis
These active ingredients are in medicines whose approved uses include Osteoporosis. Brands are listed A to Z, not ranked. A doctor or pharmacist decides which medicine is right for you.
Calcium carbonate
- Cipcal 500 · 500 mg elemental calcium tablet
- Shelcal 500 · 500 mg elemental calcium tablet
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)
- Cipcal 500 · VERIFY on pack tablet
- Shelcal 500 · VERIFY on pack tablet
Common questions
What causes osteoporosis?
Bone loss is a normal part of ageing, but some people lose bone faster, for example women after menopause. Other risks include early menopause, long-term steroid tablets, family history, low body weight, smoking and heavy drinking.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Doctors assess fracture risk and often use a bone density scan (DEXA). The result is given as a T score, where below minus 2.5 means osteoporosis. A doctor interprets the result and decides on any treatment.
Can calcium and vitamin D alone treat osteoporosis?
They support bone health but are not a full treatment on their own for established osteoporosis. A doctor chooses bone-strengthening treatment based on fracture risk. Do not start or stop any treatment without a doctor's advice.
Sources
- Osteoporosis. NHS (UK)
- Calcium. NHS (UK)
- Vitamin D. NHS (UK)