August 2004
Ask Dr. Marks: 08/04
Subscribers Only I’ve heard that certain medications can lead to osteoporosis. Which ones are they? At what point, or under what circumstances, should someone have a bone density test? Fortunately, very few arthritis medications cause osteoporosis. Two that can cause osteoporosis, however, are corticosteroids and methotrexate, medications that are frequently used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. When used in the low doses that are commonly prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, methotrexate will not cause osteoporosis. It is…
Manipulating Back Pain
Subscribers Only Chiropractic therapy can bring modest pain relief, but it’s wise to explore more traditional treatments first.
Online Rx: Proceed With Caution
Subscribers Only Buying arthritis drugs over the Internet may save you money. It may also be hazardous to your health.
Chasing Pain: It’s A Stretch
Subscribers Only If you want to stay strong and flexible, resistance bands are an easy and convenient alternative to weights and machines.
If It Sounds Too Good To Be True...
Subscribers Only Millions continue to shell out billions for phony treatments—and arthritis patients are among the biggest victims.
In The News: 08/04
Subscribers Only Alendronate: Staying Power For Osteoporosis Patients The osteoporosis drug alendronate (Fosamax), a non-hormonal medication which slows bone loss and increases bone density by promoting bone mineralization, continues to help prevent bone loss years after patients stop taking it. A 10-year study among 247 post-menopausal women found that bone mineral density in the spine increased nearly 14 percent among those who took 10mg of alendronate daily for 10 years. Patients who took 20mg of the drug daily…
Arthritis Drugs: The Dark Side
Subscribers Only A drug’s side effects are predictable, common—and worrisome. Here’s how you can get the most from your medications with the least amount of risk.