Fractures and other complications of osteoporosis drugs
Fosamax (Alendronate) and similar medications increase the appearance of bone density on scans by killing off the specialized bone cells (osteoclasts) that do the important jobs of bone resorption and turnover. Problem: balanced turnover is necessary for bones to remain healthy and flexible. The deceptive increase in density masks underlying brittleness that can predispose to fracture and other complications, including Osteonecrosis of the jaw (the jawbone suffers a non-healing internal fracture). Here are just a few studies that highlight the alarming consequences of long-term use of these agents:
- Severely Suppressed Bone Turnover: A Potential Complication of Alendronate Therapy
- Long-Term Safety of Bisphosphonates
- Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Correlated to Bisphosphonate Therapy
There is a better way. The functional medicine approach quantifies the risk factors for osteoporosis: inflammation, hormone regulation and metabolism—and measures bone turnover with a simple urine test—on a personal basis. Prevention and treatment based on these objective findings is safe and wholesome; effectiveness is validated by follow-up tests. Remember: osteoporosis is not a calcium deficiency disorder, but a loss of the bone's protein 'scaffolding'. Contact us for more information. Questions?