As Dr. Bach points out, even bone density scans are not perfect indicators of the benefits your bones may be receiving from the medicine. Studies have demonstrated that many of these medicines help prevented fractures even more than would be predicted strictly by the effects on bone density, possibly as a result of the drugs' changes to the bone architecture.

Weighing the pros and cons of a prescription regimen to help combat osteoporosis is a personal decision only you can make in conjunction with your physician. Many people ultimately decide the potential benefits in preventing fractures outweigh the risks. Combined with other lifestyle changes to fight the onset of osteoporosis, medication prescribed by your doctor can be an option worth seriously considering.