Update on osteoporosis therapy.

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength that predisposes a person to increased fracture risk. Fractures are often associated with increased morbidity, higher mortality, loss of function and even psychological consequences. Pharmacotherapeutic interventions (e.g., bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators, calcitonin, and teriparatide) in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis provide substantial reduction in fracture risk over and above risk reduction with calcium and vitamin D supplementation alone. The importance of nutritional support along with an appropriate exercise regimen, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use is to be emphasized along with the pharmacologic approach to osteoporosis. Despite the effectiveness of therapy with pharmacologic agents, most patients who start therapy do not remain on treatment for more than 1 year.