Skeleton Crew session to discuss pharmaceuticals for osteoporosis

DEXTER — Many adults choose to take one of several pharmaceuticals as prescribed by their physicians to treat their osteoporosis. Most of these drugs are designed to maintain bone density by slowing the breakdown of bone and to decrease the risk of bone fractures due to osteoporosis. Although use of the commonly known bisphosphonate drugs, such a Fosamax, have served this purpose for many people, the risk of very unpleasant and sometimes debilitating side effects have made their use troublesome for others.  

Which pharmaceutical to choose, if one chooses a drug at all, is a very personal decision based on the severity of the osteoporosis, the convenience of the dosing schedule, cost and the risk of possibly serious, long-term side effects. Taking a pharmaceutical does not negate the need to do weight-bearing exercises, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and eat a diet rich in calcium, minerals and Vitamin D.

At noon on April 1 at the Abbott Memorial Library, Robert Lodato, M.D. will address the advantages and disadvantages of the six main types of osteoporosis medications as well as the pros and cons of taking pharmaceuticals for this condition. Dr. Lodato is particularly well-suited for this presentation because of his degree in pharmacy as well as his medical degree.  

He graduated from the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey in 1986. His internship was at the University of Michigan, and he graduated from a residency in (Adult) Internal Medicine at Madigan Army Medical Center in 1991. After practicing in Fort Hood, Texas for two years, he moved to Maine and has been working for Mayo Regional Hospital at Dexter Internal Medicine since then.  Besides his expertise in medications, Dr. Lodato has a particular interest in using food to maintain health as well as prevent and reverse disease.

For more information, call Liz Breault at the Abbott Memorial Library (924-7292). A lunch rich in calcium and magnesium conducive to bone health will be available free of charge.