Which drug class treats and prevents osteoporosis?

• A. Corticosteroid
• B. Antipsychotic
• C. Antiretroviral
• D. Bone resorption inhibitor

Answer: (D)

In osteoporosis, the key goal is to slow or halt bone loss by reducing bone resorption. Bone resorption inhibitors achieve this by dampening the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone. By inhibiting resorption, these drugs help maintain or increase bone mineral density and lower fracture risk. Bisphosphonates (like alendronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid) bind to bone and promote osteoclast apoptosis, directly reducing bone breakdown. Denosumab, a monoclonal antibody, blocks RANKL, preventing osteoclast formation and activity. These effects address the underlying imbalance in bone remodeling seen in osteoporosis, making this class the most appropriate choice for both treatment and prevention.

Corticosteroids can contribute to bone loss with long-term use, so they are not a treatment for osteoporosis. Antipsychotics and antiretrovirals are not used to treat osteoporosis directly.