4 Treatment options for osteoporosis in Parkinson’s

In the previous section, you learnt about assessing fracture risk in Parkinson’s. This section looks at treatment options for osteoporosis and for reducing fracture risk, with particular considerations for Parkinson’s.

In section 4, you will gain:

• knowledge of the components of appropriate bone health lifestyle advice and vitamin D management
• familiarity with the classes of drugs that are used to treat osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk as well as the mechanisms of drug action
• awareness of the suitability of bone-specific treatment options in Parkinson’s, including the interaction of side effects and non-motor symptoms

As you have seen, osteoporosis and increased fracture risk have several contributing factors and many are amenable to lifestyle advice. This is as true in Parkinson’s as it is in the general population, and Parkinson’s clinicians are well placed to reinforce this advice. There are good resources for patients and clinicians from the Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS) [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] . Everyone at risk of fracture should be encouraged to maximise their bone health by paying attention to the following factors.