What type of medication is commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis in older women?

Bisphosphonates are a class of medications specifically designed to prevent the loss of bone density, which is a major concern in older women who are at a higher risk for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis leads to weakened bones, increasing the likelihood of fractures, so bisphosphonates work by inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, effectively increasing bone mineral density and reducing fracture risk. Commonly prescribed bisphosphonates include alendronate, risedronate, and zoledronic acid.

In the context of treating osteoporosis, the other options do not target bone health. Antidepressants are used to manage mood disorders and are not effective in treating osteoporosis. Analgesics are utilized for pain relief but do not have any effect on bone density. Antihypertensives are prescribed for managing high blood pressure, and while they are important for cardiovascular health, they do not have a role in osteoporosis treatment. Therefore, bisphosphonates are the appropriate medication for addressing osteoporosis in older women.