The current issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine published a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physician on drug treatment for low bone density.  It contains a valuable review of the known benefits and risks of the medications used for osteoporosis which I summarize below. Bisphosphonates This family of medicines includes Fosamax, Didronel, Boniva and Actonel.  Fosamax, Didronel, Boniva and Actonel have been proven to prevent vertebral fract...