|
|
Estrogen / Progesterone Supplements and Osteoporosis
It is a well known fact that estrogens protect against bone loss. The primary question I ask every estrogen patient is: Are you taking a calcium supplement? The science is indisputable on this issue. Women on estrogen should have at least 1000 to 1500 mg of calcium per day. Progesterone stimulates osteoblast mediated new bone formation (increases bone mass and density).
Q. What can the pharmacist do in the area of osteoporosis and women
heath?
A. We know that women are at greater risk for osteoporosis
because of declining estrogen levels. New technology has made bone mineral
density (BMD) screening more available.
With this test a pharmacist can cut cost to the patient and play a key role in the aggressive approach the medical community is now taking in women's heath.
Q. How Do I Choose a Calcium Supplement?
A. Not all supplements are created equal. Along with calcium
the body needs other nutrients to develop and maintain strong bones. Other
essential nutrients necessary for calcium metabolism are magnesium, vitamin
K, manganese, boron, vitamin D, vitamin B6, copper, L-Lysine HCL and silicon.
As a dietary supplement, calcium carbonate contains the most calcium but
is not well absorbed. Organic forms of calcium such as calcium citrate,
calcium malate, calcium lactate and the compound hydroxyapatite are well
absorbed.
Q. What is Osteoporosis Screening and the Bone Mineral Density
(BMD) Test?
A. Osteoporosis screening is done through bone mineral density
(BMD) tests. These tests are the most practical way to measure the density
or strength of your bones. New technology called Dual-Energy C-ray Absorpiometry
(DXA) works by measuring the amounts of x-rays that are absorbed by the
bones in your body. The levels of radiation are very low. This form of
testing is done in the hospital setting or physicians office. Another
way to screen for osteoporosis is to use ultrasound. These screening devices
measure the amount of sound waves that pass thru the bone, usually the
heel. The Sarah used at the Wellness Store was FDA approved in March 1998
to be accurate against the DXA scan. It uses T-Scores and Z-Scores like
the DXA and your physician will understand the results.
Key Point: Currently, no national recommendations exist that specify the technique by which or the site at which bone mineral density should be measured.
