Treatment Methods Are Not Completely the Same
The treatments for both conditions are similar, but not completely. People with osteopenia and those with osteoporosis are at a greater risk of bone fracture than the average person. But people with osteoporosis are at much greater risk, so treatment for osteoporosis is typically more aggressive.
Osteopenia is not a bone disease yet. [5] Adequate exercise and diets rich in calcium and vitamin D are often enough to keep the bones strong and healthy, preventing osteopenia from happening or worsening. Doctors don’t always recommend additional treatments, but if your bone mineral density is very low, they may prescribe vitamin D or calcium supplements to strengthen your bone. [6]
Besides diets rich in calcium and vitamin D, doctors may recommend foods rich in zinc, magnesium, vitamin K, and protein for osteoporosis patients. Osteoporosis treatments often include the use of bisphosphonates orally or via injection. [7] These drugs typically are alendronate, zoledronic acid, or ibandronate. Using other medications that stimulate bone growth is also common. Doctors may recommend hormone therapy, teriparatide, calcitonin salmon, or raloxifene.