U.S
health department statistics reported that around 10 million Americans
are suffering from osteoporosis and 34 million more are expected to have
the condition. The ultimate result of this major health problem could
be several types of fracture. Hence, it is important that therapies are
developed for this kind of bone disease. With the number of studies made
to discover this condition, the finding that growth hormone therapy has
the possibility to treat osteoporosis can be considered as one of the
most interesting.
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by diminished bone mineral density (BMD). Many examinations are capable of getting concrete information of the health of your bones. Before you will go through diagnostic examinations, the following questions must first be asked: · Any fractures you have incurred · Race, family history of osteoporosis · Medications taken · General intake of calcium and vitamin D · Lifestyle, activities and exercise pattern · Menstrual history for women If you are believed to be suffering from osteoporosis, then you will be advised to go through the following procedures: X-rays. If a person is complaining about lower back pains and/or a decrease in height due to a stooped posture, this procedure may be be advised. However, x-ray may not be enough as it can only detect bone loss if more than 30% has been depleted and osteoporosis may be missed. BMD tests. The BMD test is the most accurate way to assess the health status of your bones. Dual-energy X-ray absoprtiometry (DEXA) scan is one of the most identified BMD test you can take. This trouble-free procedure usually lasts around 10 minutes and can detect bone density and fracture risk with the use of limited radiation exposure. CT Scan. In rare cases, quantitative computed tomography (QCT) can be also be used to show loss of BMD. This special type of CT scan is used primarily to assess disease conditions that may be defined by abnormal BMD as well as to monitor response to therapy for these conditions. Regardless of what diagnostics you need to undergo, it is critical that osteoporosis be found as early as possible to start necessary intervention. Osteoporosis prevention, like the Fosamax drug, is reported to cause adverse effects such as femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), which means one should be careful in terms of the action that will be done after the condition was detected. In fact, the makers of this drug are currently facing a Fosamax class action lawsuit. References: bizjournals.com/prnewswire/press_releases/2011/11/29/DC12556 mayoclinic.com/health/osteoporosis/DS00128 nof.org/aboutosteoporosis/detectingosteoporosis/diagnosing
Over
the years Fosamax has been one of the bestselling drugs in the United
States. Unfortunately, repercussion came in the form of adverse effects
that ruin the reputation of the drug and its manufacturer. Now, worried
that they might suffer the same consequences, some people are reluctant
to taking the drug and are looking for ways treat or somewhat reverse
osteoporosis. This has started many different studies exploring more
about the medical condition called osteoporosis. One of the most recent
discoveries was how osteoporosis can spring from too much dairy
products.
This Fosamax issue has made many people to think twice about conventional therapy. When patients do not want to be treated the conventional way, they can opt for alternative routes of treatment that give positive outcome. Herbal therapy, Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine are among the most widely recognized alternative methods. Many countries have been practicing these methods for a long time. Herbal therapy.Combined with the right diet and proper exercises, herbal medicines have proven effectiveness in dealing with osteoporosis. False unicorn root enhances release estrogen from ovaries while alfalfa, black cohosh and wild yam are phytoestrogens or "dietary estrogens" which work like true estrogens. Additionally, horsetail or silica is also advisable to improve body's absorption to calcium. Ayurvedic Medicine.It is a form of traditional medicine native in India and a form of alternative medication. Ayurveda focuses on dietary changes combined with herbal therapy. To recover from treatment one may be given sesame seeds, almond milk and herbal formula coupled with weight-bearing exercises and gentle yoga posture. Traditional Chinese Medicine.Traditional Chinese herbs have many subtle but potent strengthening effects on the whole endocrine system. On a different note, acupuncture has been proven by studies to have therapeutic effects on osteoporosis and osteopenia, the precursor of the said brittle bone disease. The Chinese martial art Tai Chi also has different programs for osteoporosis which maintain bone mineral density. Doctors would often prescribe the conventional therapy like Fosamax in dealing with osteoporosis. Yet, Fosamax lawsuits kept on increasing as a result of their reported adverse effects. So, it is best to confer with your health care provider if you have concerns about your treatment. References: live.myfoxmemphis.com/healthfitness/osteoporosis_and_dairy/index.html nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/herbalmedicine.html nccam.nih.gov/health/ayurveda/ nccam.nih.gov/health/whatiscam/chinesemed.htm
Medical
research has shown that the human body needs manganese to function
properly. The body considers this trace mineral as a very important
component. The areas of the body that this mineral can be mostly found
are the bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas. In fact, with the latest
Fosamax issue, it has been discovered that manganese plays a role in the
development of osteoporosis.
For obtaining healthy bones, manganese is a necessary mineral, as proven by different scientific researches. But osteoporosis prevention doesn%u2019t have evidences of it being possible through manganese use. But the consumption of calcium, zinc, copper, and manganese combination may lessen spinal bone loss in a group of post-menopausal women, as suggested by one study. Although osteoporosis can be common among older women, it can still happen on anyone. Manganese does not only help osteoporosis but also other medical conditions like: Diabetes There are some studies regarding low levels of manganese seen in the blood tests of people with diabetes. But researchers have no idea if having diabetes causes levels to drop, or whether low levels of manganese contribute to developing diabetes. Additional studies are needed in order to explore more of this relationship. Anyway, there is one clinical study about diabetes and high levels of manganese. It was found out that these diabetics are more protected compared to those who have lower levels of the said mineral. Epilepsy Several clinical studies suggest that people who have seizure disorders have lower levels of manganese in their blood. However, there is still the question if the low level of manganese is the cause of seizures or if it%u2019s the other way around. It is important to note that in rats, it was found out that manganese did not reduce the severity of seizures. More clinical studies are needed, though. There are many foods where manganese can be found such as nuts and seeds, wheat germ and whole grains (including unrefined cereals, buckwheat, bulgur wheat, and oats), legumes, and pineapples. Manganese salts (sulfate and gluconate) and manganese chelates (aspartate, picolinate, fumarate, malate, succinate, citrate, and amino acid chelate) are the different forms of manganese. They are usually taken in either tablet or capsule forms. Now, as Fosamax problems continue to rise, there might be many people wondering about escaping the problem if they have only taken enough manganese. However, it must be understood that manganese is not the only answer for the conditions associated with Fosamax. Now, the reported adverse effects which is in the form of Fosamax femur fractures should be the main concern and the ways of how to deal with it. References: myhealthnewsdaily.com/2065-deer-antlers-osteoporosis.html ag.udel.edu/EXTENSION/fnutri/pdf/Nutrition/fnf-21.pdf personalhealthfacts.com/minerals2.html
As
osteoporosis involves many different risk factors, it is no longer
surprising to see an increasing number of people being afflicted. The
list keeps on growing as recent studies found out that low levels of
manganese may cause osteoporosis. Furthermore, we should be aware that
even some of the frequently prescribed medications may speed up the
thinning of the bones.
We are already aware that drugs such steroids or corticosteroids, thyroid medications, and antacids with aluminum are known to cause rapid bone loss. Apart from these, there are still a lot of medications that may lead the decline of the bone density of a person. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs comprise a group of drugs that reduce the secretion of gastric acid. These drugs are widely used for prevention or treatment of peptic ulcers and acid reflux diseases. Unfortunately, the long-term consumption of these drugs have been linked to the development of osteoporosis-related fractures on the hips, wrist, or spine. Antibiotics. It is interesting to know that studies about the link between osteoporosis and antibiotics reveal conflicting findings. One study revealed severe osteoporosis after a 30-day antibiotic therapy while other investigations suggest that these drugs could actually contribute to the treatment of bone loss. While the truth has not been finally revealed, it is best to always monitor the status of your bone density especially if you are on antibiotics for a long time. Loop Diuretics. These are approved prescription drugs for patients with hypertension or congestive heart failure. Loop diuretics interfere with bone development as they tend to increase calcium excretion of the kidneys. The most widely used brands of loop diuretics are Lasix, Bumex, Edecrin, and Demadex. Since there are still more medications that may lead to bone loss, it is advisable to always read the medication guide and ask your doctor about the possible side effects of the drugs you%u2019re taking. Osteoporosis remains to be one of the most debilitating diseases and its most widely recommended treatment, Fosamax, has been known to yield severe adverse effects especially to its long-term users. In fact, a Fosamax class action lawsuit has been filed against the drug%u2019s manufacturer. References: antibiotics.emedtv.com/tetracycline/tetracycline-side-effects.html mb.com.ph/articles/336564/investing-bones-preventing-osteoporosis medicinenet.com/proton-pump_inhibitors/article.htm osteoporosis-vitamins.com/osteoporosis-riskydrugs.html osteopenia3.com/Osteopenia-antibiotics.html
A number of studies have shown that bisphosphonates, which are drugs used as osteoporosis treatment, may produce dangerous long term side effects. These studies have also shown that women who are aged 68 or older and have taken it for over five years have about a three percent high chance of suffering from a femoral shaft fracture than those who used the drugs for fewer than 100 days. This became so alarming that monitoring vitamin D levels in children to avoid osteoporosis were advised by pediatricians. In order to avoid this bisphosphonate problem, the condition should be avoided first. The normal level of vitamin D in the blood is said to be about 20 nanograms per milliliter. When one's level of vitamin D goes below that number, it will then be considered "suboptimal". Then, proper medications must be given to avoid complications such as cancer, heart disease, or premature osteoporosis. In the United States, it is said that one in 10 children have vitamin D deficiency problems, which may be an indication why there are many Americans suffering from osteoporosis and the recent bisphosphonate problems. One popular bisphosphonate drug is called Fosamax and is distributed by Merck & Co. It has been a popular choice for doctors to prescribe to their patients who suffer from osteoporosis. Since its introduction, it has had a steady prescription rate at around 1.5 million prescriptions per year. These prescriptions have led to sales amounting to billions for Merck. However, many consumers are now claiming that Merck did not do proper research on the drug. They also mentioned that proper warning to its consumers about the potentially dangerous side effects of the drug was not given. This has resulted to Merck facing thousands of lawsuits which kept on increasing in numbers over time. Compensation claims are also starting to surface from those who say that there was not enough warning on the bottles of Fosamax prescribed to them. These patients also state that if they had read anything which stated that Fosamax had the potential to harm them in any dangerous way, that they would have never taken the drug in the first place. Many of these claims have come after the fact that the patient has already suffered a femur fractures. References: http://library.med.utah.edu/WebPath/TUTORIAL/OSTEO/OSTEOPOR.html http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120222204235.htm
Presently,
osteoporosis and Paget's Disease have influence on the lives of many
people. These bone-related medical problems, however, are being
discussed exhaustively by many books, among them the likes of John
Kanis's Pathophysiology and Treatment of Paget's Disease of Bone.
A few decades back, osteoporosis and Paget's Disease were not seriously regarded by rheumatologists. Today, this no longer the case. Researches have been set out in order to explore the possibilities of these medical conditions. One of these researches has even led to the conclusion that vibration therapy is ineffective for treating osteoporosis. Medical disorders related to the bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues are now being held with full understanding by rheumatologists. The author of this book has no background in rheumatology. But his studies made a extraordinary initiative concerning Paget's Disease. Readers can get insights from this book because of its thorough study on different treatments. Its strength comes from its quality: very comprehensive, well-written, and authoritative. It is also more useful because the author provided an exhaustive reference list that provides guidance whenever one decides to look up on something. Tabular and graphical forms are provided where unpublished content are very well-expressed. People interested in Paget's Disease should get this book because this is probably among one of the best resources available. Femur fractures caused by the biphosphonate called Fosamax is one of the most currently celebrated issues connected to Paget's Disease. Forming part of a worthy strategy in dealing with early Paget's Disease treatment, the book has a discussion on newer forms of biphosphonates. It is also worth mentioning how Kanis explained his idea why there is an imbalance and disparity in terms of osteoarthritis and Paget's Disease treatment. Moreover, this book has also explored other medical conditions associated with Paget's Disease, among them gout. Is the book worthy of its price? It cannot be deniedthat it fetches quite a high price.Undeniably, this book commands quite a high price. However, its being a very unique resource will really match its price. And as people experiencing a Fosamax femur fracture keep increasing their numbers, easy access to this book will prove valuable. References: http://www.freep.com/article/20111023/FEATURES08/110230413/Harvard-Medical-School-Adviser-Does-vibration-therapy-strengthen-bones-work- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1004983/pdf/annrheumd00477-0006a.pdf http://www.amazon.com/Pathophysiology-Treatment-Pagets-Disease-Bone/dp/1853174637
A
disease wherein one%u2019s bone density becomes significantly low is called
osteoporosis. As a treatment for this disease, biphosphonates like
Fosamax are often used. Generally, osteoporosis is a medical condition
often associated with women. Yet, around 25 percent of men aged 50 and
above can be afflicted of this condition making this medical fact
incorrect. Interestingly, as research shows, inflammatory bowel disease
was found out to develop osteoporosis.
It is worthy discussing how osteoporosis can hit men regardless of age since it has been widely assumed to only affect women. There are several risk factors of osteoporosis in men and sad to say, most of them pertain to men's lifestyle. Else it could be medication-related or hormonal imbalance. Glucocorticoid medications. These are steroids that are given as treatment for inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis as well as asthma. Bone loss is one of the most common side effects of these drugs. These drugs may be given on a long course and as a result, bone mass may gradually and continuously diminish. Hypogonadism. It is a very important risk factor for osteoporosis in men which pertains to abnormally low levels of sex hormones. Just like estrogen, where low levels may lead to osteoporosis in women, dwindling levels of sex hormone in men could complicate into osteoporosis. Alcohol abuse. More than enough substantiation is pointing out the link between excessive alcohol consumption and low levels of bone density. Men who sought medical help for alcohol abuse are often found to have low bone mass. A daily intake of two alcoholic drinks can significantly increase the risk for osteoporosis. Smoking. Although it has not been clearly understood how tobacco use can affect the bones, it has been observed that bone loss is more rapid among men who smoke than those who don't. We already know how detrimental smoking is to our health. Gastrointestinal disorders/resection and inadequate calcium and vitamin D are other causative factors of osteoporosis. The low intake if calcium and vitamin D are known to be directly responsible for the absorption and regulation of calcium in the bones. A sedentary lifestyle, immobilization or absence of weight-bearing activities negatively influences the health of the bones. Different information associated with Fosamax have been surfacing as the number of complaints against the drug increases. Right now, a thorough discussion regarding facts about osteoporosis, Fosamax femur fracture, Paget%u2019s Disease, and Fosamax lawsuit are still happening. References: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001400/ http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ACG/29360
According
to researchers, experiencing bone fractures is higher among people
suffering from osteoporosis. This actually has to do with how
osteoporosis makes the bone weaker. A biphosphonate medication is often
recommended for these people. One of the best examples of this
medication is the drug called Fosamax. Right now, the number of people
filing complaints kept on rising as issues with this drug surfaced
showing how popular the drug has become. Yet, it was not really that
famous if its history is traced. Actually, Merck found ways to create a
Fosamax demand.
Antiresorptive or bone anabolic agents such as biphosphonates are the commonly prescribed drug for those who have osteoporosis. Initial use of the medication for four years has shown positive effects in its goal of fracture prevention and bone strengthening. However, news regarding its harmful tendency to cause atypical, low-impact femur fractures, among other severe Fosamax side-effects reported by long-time users, has accumulated as the years passed. The issue concerning Fosamax's link with femur fracture complications has triggered research studies created to better understand the root of all the claims and reports circulating around the biphosphonate drug. The May issue of the New England Journal of Medicine published an article bearing the title Bisphosphonate Use and Atypical Fractures of the Femoral Shaft which was a study done to examine the alleged complications of the biphosphonate drug, Fosamax. Shedding light on those side effects was a goal. Many doctors were jolted by the study considering some of them were convinced of the drug's harmful complications. Yet, some medical practitioners see that the drugs benefits outweighs its adverse effects. The head of this research study, Dr. Per Aspenberg believes that These population-based nationwide analysis may be reassuring for patients who receive bisphosphonates Although there was a high prevalence of current bisphosphonate use among patients with atypical fractures, the absolute risk was small. Currently, people filing a Fosamax lawsuit is on a constant increase. Complaints regarding the experience of atypical and low-impact femur fracture are mentioned by many people. The decrease of this number cannot be seen anytime soon as trends suggest. References: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=121609815
Osteoporosis has been a major health problem which 10 million
Americans %u2013 and probably 34 millions more in the near future. There are
many options available to manage the disease including and osteoporosis drug which can reduce bone loss
associated with breast cancer medication. However, the entire treatment
requires not just pharmaceutical interventions but also proper diet,
healthy lifestyle and regular weight-bearing exercises.
Weight-bearing exercise refers to an activity you do
while on your feet and legs with involves the work of your muscles and
bones against gravity. Your bones are subjected to tension brought by
the impact of your weight and the pull of the muscle. As a result, your
body responds by increasing your bone mineral density which strengthens
your bones.
Below are some weight-bearing activities you can try: Tai Chi and Yoga Tai
chi is a form of slow and graceful move which builds both coordination
and strong bones. Similarly, certain yoga poses work your back muscles
to preserve the health of your spine sharpens your balance,
coordination, concentration and body awareness %u2013 therefore preventing
falls. It has been proven on researches that these exercises can
significantly increase your bone mineral density.
Brisk Walking & Hiking Walking
and hiking have always been the fitness trends especially popular to
women. Although brisk walking is best, you may adjust your speed to what
your body tolerates. Akin to walking, hiking just gives more impact
especially when going uphill or downhill.
Golf and Racquet Sports In sports,
golf and racquet sports, such as tennis and badminton, are very
effective in improving your bone mineral density. All the walking and
swinging of the club involved when playing golf will surely improve your
bone strength. In a game of racquet sports, hitting the ball
strengthens your shoulder your hips and spine are developed with the
constant running around and chasing the ball.
Before you start any weight-bearing activities,
always consult your doctor to find out if you can do such activities,
especially if bone thinning has already began in your case. Also, we
need to remember that these activities are not to replace your
medications, especially bisphosphonate drugs like Fosamax. We've seen
the news about people filing a Fosamax lawsuit
after allegedly being harmed by the drug, but this does not explain why
we should stop taking the drug especially without your physician's
advice.
References: http://arthritis.about.com/od/exercise/a/weightbearing.htm http://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/living-with-osteoporosis-7/exercise-weight-bearing
Bisphosphonates are ordered in as many as 30 million prescriptions
annually in the United States. One reason for that is because one bisphosphonate can be given as pain reliever
for bone metastases of prostate cancer; however, on top of that,
Fosamax, a drug under bisphosphonate class, is one of the most preferred
by physicians as treatment for osteoporosis. Now that Fosamax is
patronized by a myriad of patients, reinforcing the knowledge of
thwarting Fosamax side effects is very necessary. According to Merck & Co., Fosamax may yield the following unintended effects: - Problems in the esophagus - Hypocalcemia or having serum calcium levels below normal
- Severe pain on the bones, joints or muscles - Death of jaw bone tissue (osteonecrosis)
- Low-impact thigh bone fracture So
that the risk of suffering these undesirable effects is minimized, take
note of these reminders when taking your Fosamax medication.
- Take the drug exactly as prescribed by your doctor - Take the drug after getting up and before taking any food, drink, or other drug
- Take this medicine
while standing or sitting upright along with a full glass of plain water
only never keep the drug on your mouth for too long by chewing or
sucking its oral forms
- Within the next 30 minutes, do not switch into a reclining position and do not take any food, Medication or drink (except plain water) In addition to the tips stated above, you are advised to
temporarily stop taking Fosamax and call your doctor immediately once
you felt chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or difficulty or pain
during swallowing. Any of these conditions may be suggestive of a damage
on your esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and your stomach)
such as irritation, inflammation, or ulceration which may include
bleeding at times.
Also, spasms, twitches and muscles cramps; or
numbness or tingling sensation in your fingers, toes or around your
mouth, are possibly due to hypocalcemia which needs to be reported to
your physician right away. Most of the time, calcium and vitamin D
supplements may be added on your therapy but only take these drugs if
your doctor says so.
Rare but significant counts of people incurring an
unusual thigh bone fracture due to long-term use of the drug have also
been reported. Thus, don%u2019t forget to ask your doctor about the course of
your therapy and your risk for such adverse reaction. What%u2019s more is
that most of these situations ultimately resulted in the litigation of Fosamax lawsuits
against the the drug maker. Although undoubtedly beneficial, taking
Fosamax requires precautions and responsibilities that every patronizer
needs to be aware of.
References: http://www.bjmp.org/content/oral-bisphosphonates-and-risk-osteonecrosis-jawhttp://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/f/fosamax/fosamax_mg.pdf
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