USMLE Step 2 CK Lecture Notes 2019: Obstetrics/Gynecology (Kaplan Test Prep)

Table II-12-4. Osteoporosis

Lifestyle. Calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, and
elimination of cigarettes and alcohol.
Medications. Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate, risedronate) inhibit
osteoclastic activity. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs; e.g.,
raloxifene) increase bone density. Bisphosphonates and SERMs are the first
choices for osteoporosis treatment. Calcitonin and fluoride have also been
used. While estrogen is a highly effective therapy, it should not be primarily
used to treat osteoporosis because of concerns detailed in the next paragraph.