Osteoporosis Medications Flashcards
Which group of people are prone to develop osteoporosis
older women
Pathophysiology of Bone Process
-bones are constantly undergoing process of renewal
-osteoclasts break down the old cells, releasing CA in blood stream
-osteoblasts build new ones, removing CA from the bloodstream
W/ Osteoporosis:
-this process gets out of balance and more bone cells are lost than are replaced
-leads to porous bones that are less dense and easy to fracture
Causes of osteoporosis include
- Changes in hormone related to bone metabolism (e.g., estrogen and testosterone).
- Lack of physical activity.
- A diet low in calcium and vitamin D.
- Certain medical conditions or medications (e.g., glucocorticoids).
-smoking
-excessive alcohol
Common Signs and Symptoms of osteoporosis
- Loss of height or a hunched posture.
- Back pain.
- Fractures (breaks) in the bones, especially the spine, hip, and wrist.
- A decrease in muscle mass and strength.
- A decrease in physical function and mobility.
-Many people with osteoporosis have no signs or symptoms. The first indication for them might be an unexpected fracture.
Osteoporosis is typically diagnosed using what?
bone density x-ray test called DEXA
Medication Options for Osteoporosis
- Bisphosphonates
- Estrogen
- Raloxifene
- Calcitonin
- Denosumab
- Teriparatide
how does Bisphosphonates treat osteoporosis?
these slow down the rate at which the body breaks down bone.
how does estrogen treat osteoporosis?
it suppresses osteoclast activity
how does raloxifene treat osteoporosis?
it mimics the effects of estrogen on the bones
how does calcitonin treat osteoporosis?
it regulates calcium balance and slows the rate of bone loss
how does denosumab treat osteoporosis?
it is a monoclonal antibody that decreases osteoclasts.
how does teriparatide treat osteoporosis?
it is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone that stimulates new bone production.
which medications end in the suffix -dronate.
biphosphonates
Which bisphosphonates should you know?
- Alendronate
- Ibandronate
Bisphosphonates Common Uses
-osteoporosis
-Paget disease
-can help prevent and treat osteoporosis caused by long term glucocorticoid therapy
Bisphosphonates Mechanism of Action
Bisphosphonates work by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts.
When should clients take Bisphosphonates? Why?
- 30 minutes before eating or drinking in the morning.
-bc they are poorly absorbed
How can patients who are taking bisphosphonates prevent ulcers in the esophagus?
clients should take these medications with a full glass of water and should stay upright for at least 30 minutes afterward.
Biphosphonates affect which electrolyte?
it decreases serum calcium levels (hypocalcemia)
Which vitamins and minerals should you know?
- Ergocalciferol
- Cholecalciferol
- Calcium
What are ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol?
different versions of Vitamin D
ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol common uses
-prescribed for diseases associated w/ vitamin D deficiency
-prescribed to clients taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis & for hypoparathyroidism
vitamin D deficiency in children is called
rickets
vitamin D deficiency in adults is called
osteomalacia
