PREVIEW
Bone mineral density reaches its peak between the ages of 30 and 35 in women. Thereafter, without intervention, bone loss continues gradually, with a significant acceleration in the first 5 to 6 years after menopause. For decades, estrogen replacement has been the mainstay in preventing bone loss and treating osteoporosis after menopause, and it remains first-line therapy. However, not all women are able or willing to use estrogen, so effective alternatives have been developed. In this article, Dr Williams summarizes findings of recent research concerning optimal use of estrogen as well as alendronate, etidronate, raloxifene, calcitonin-salmon, and other measures to manage osteoporosis.