Review of postmenopausal osteoporosis pharmacotherapy

The degradation of bone tissue leading to osteoporosis is often silent and unrecognized until a postmenopausal woman develops a bone fracture. The costs of medical treatment and subsequent changes in the quality of life of a patient are significant, and avoidance via proper nutrition, exercise, and pharmacologic therapy may be the key to decreasing healthcare costs associated with this disease state. A periodic review of current literature is necessary to update the reader of current therapeutic options for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. A number of medications exist, and new options are ongoing. Clinicians now have access to antiresorptive and anabolic therapy in addition to lifestyle modification as options for patients. This article consists of a review of established guidelines for screening, diagnosis, and pharmacologic modalities and will provide a comprehensive assessment of therapeutic options.