Osteoporosis & Bone Health
Trusted information about osteoporosis, fracture prevention, and treatment options.
Educational resources curated by Verra Health Clinic
About osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weaker and are more likely to break. Treatment may be recommended when your risk of fracture is high, especially to reduce the chance of hip, spine, and other fragility fractures.
Why treatment may be recommended
Osteoporosis treatment is usually recommended when the benefit of reducing future fracture risk is greater than the risk of side effects. Your clinician may consider your bone density scan, fracture history, age, medical conditions, medications, and overall fracture risk.
Alendronate and bisphosphonates
Alendronate is a commonly used bisphosphonate medication. Bisphosphonates help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. They must be taken correctly to reduce the chance of irritation to the throat or stomach.
Recommended resources
General information about osteoporosis treatment and why treatment may be recommended.Alendronate information
Information about how alendronate works, how to take it, benefits, and side effects.Alendronate patient leaflet PDF
Printable patient leaflet about alendronate treatment.Osteonecrosis of the jaw information
Information about this rare dental-related risk and when to seek advice.
When to contact the clinic
- You are unsure whether to start treatment.
- You have side effects after starting medication.
- You have difficulty swallowing tablets.
- You are planning major dental surgery.
- You develop new thigh, groin, or hip pain while on treatment.
The above resources are provided by trusted third-party organizations and curated by Verra Health Clinic for patient education.
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