Do I need to take a medication?
Osteoporosis medications are prescribed to help strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of breaking a bone. They are usually prescribed if your risk of breaking a bone is significantly higher than normal.
Your doctor may use a fracture risk assessment to determine your risk of breaking a bone. This test calculates your chances of breaking a bone in the next 10 years, based on a number of different factors. A bone density scan may also be used as part of the assessment.
If your risk is calculated to be significantly higher than normal, a treatment is usually prescribed.
Depending on your age or medical history, your doctor may decide not to prescribe a medication in the first instance:
Strengthening your bones without medication
Taking an osteoporosis medication is the best method to help strengthen your bones.
If you choose not to take conventional medications due to your personal health beliefs, there are some practical steps you can take to help your bones. You may also be considering complimentary therapies.
If you are concerned about potential side effects and are unsure whether you want to take a medication, we encourage you take time considering which approach is best for you. Our specialist nurses are here for you. They can talk through all the risks and benefits of taking both a medication and non-medication approach.

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