How is osteoporosis in men prevented and treated?
• Recognize and treat any underlying medical conditions that affect bone health. Identify and evaluate the use of medications that are known to cause bone loss. • Stop smoking and the excessive use of alcohol. • Take vitamin D supplements of at least 400 IU but not more than 800 IU daily if your exposure to sunlight (at least 10 minutes per day) is inadequate. • Do weight-bearing exercises regularly (walking, jogging, racquet sports, stair climbing, and team sports). Lifting weights or using resistance machines appears to help preserve bone density. If you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, have your doctor evaluate your exercise program before you begin. Twisting motions and impact activities may need to be stopped depending on the severity of your condition. • Medications such as alendronate (Fosamax) and risedronate (Actonel) are approved for use in men with osteoporosis. Physicians may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy for men with low testosterone levels. Calc
