Osteoporosis is a cause of considerable morbidity and mortality in men and women. Medical intervention can reduce the progression of osteoporosis and decrease the fracture risk associated with low bone mineral density. In this article, we review the evidence for medical therapies for osteoporosis, including estrogen, calcitonin, bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and the newest approved agent, recombinant human parathyroid hormone. We also discuss several controversial areas in osteoporosis treatment, including the management of men with osteoporosis, approach to monitoring the effects of osteoporosis therapy, and need for cost-effective strategies for osteoporosis treatment.
