What is the first-line treatment for osteoporosis?

The first-line treatment for osteoporosis is oral bisphosphonates. These medications, which include alendronate and risedronate, are specifically designed to inhibit bone resorption, leading to an increase in bone density and a reduction in the risk of fractures. Bisphosphonates function by binding to bone surfaces and are taken up by osteoclasts, which are the cells responsible for bone resorption. This mechanism is particularly effective in patients with osteoporosis, as it directly targets the underlying disease process.

While estrogen therapy can be beneficial in preventing bone loss, particularly in postmenopausal women, it is not typically considered first-line due to associated risks such as cardiovascular events and breast cancer. Similarly, while calcium and vitamin D supplementation are important for bone health and help support the effectiveness of other osteoporosis treatments, they do not directly modify the disease process of osteoporosis. Instead, these supplements are usually recommended to ensure adequate nutrition but are not sufficient as standalone treatments for managing osteoporosis. Therefore, oral bisphosphonates are recognized as the primary therapeutic approach for treating this condition effectively.