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Hello, I was searching for information on osteopenia. I was told after my DEXA scan that I am one level close to being diagnosed with osteoporosis. Do I need an injection (monthly/yearly) or medication to keep it stable? Will my general practitioner be able to prescribe this medication or do I need to see a specialist? I received this diagnosis from my gynecologist.
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
If there is only osteopenia and not yet beyond the threshold for osteoporosis (it would have been useful if you provided Dexa scan reports) then I would suggest for the moment to try only supplementation with vitamin D and calcium, minimize caffeine and alcohol use, stop smoking (if you smoke) and weight bearing exercises (preferably with a physiotherapist at least initially). DEXA scan controlls should be scheduled periodically. If scan values worsen despite above measures then treatment with bisphopshonates monthly of weekly may be prescribed. Who prescribes it depends a little on the regulations where you live, usually it is a rheumatologist.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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How Can Osteopenia And Osteoporosis Be Treated?
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. If there is only osteopenia and not yet beyond the threshold for osteoporosis (it would have been useful if you provided Dexa scan reports) then I would suggest for the moment to try only supplementation with vitamin D and calcium, minimize caffeine and alcohol use, stop smoking (if you smoke) and weight bearing exercises (preferably with a physiotherapist at least initially). DEXA scan controlls should be scheduled periodically. If scan values worsen despite above measures then treatment with bisphopshonates monthly of weekly may be prescribed. Who prescribes it depends a little on the regulations where you live, usually it is a rheumatologist. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.