Question:easy
In a postmenopausal woman, the first-line drug for osteoporosis is:
In a postmenopausal woman, the first-line drug for osteoporosis is:
Show Hint
The drug class that blocks osteoclasts is the standard first choice.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
- OCP
- Bisphosphonates
- Raloxifene
- Strontium
Show Solution
The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Mnemonic angle: bone needs the osteoclast switched off, and bisphosphonates are the anti-resorptive that does exactly that, so they head the list for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Option elimination: OCP (option 1) is contraception, not bone therapy, so out. Raloxifene (option 3) is a SERM that does protect bone, but it is hormonal and sits behind bisphosphonates as second-line. Strontium (option 4) is a later add-on, not first choice.
Why bisphosphonates: drugs like alendronate and ibandronate bind hydroxyapatite, are taken up by osteoclasts, and trigger their apoptosis, cutting resorption. They reduce vertebral and hip fractures, which is why guidelines name them first-line, with extra roles in Paget disease and bone metastases.
Answer: bisphosphonates.
Option elimination: OCP (option 1) is contraception, not bone therapy, so out. Raloxifene (option 3) is a SERM that does protect bone, but it is hormonal and sits behind bisphosphonates as second-line. Strontium (option 4) is a later add-on, not first choice.
Why bisphosphonates: drugs like alendronate and ibandronate bind hydroxyapatite, are taken up by osteoclasts, and trigger their apoptosis, cutting resorption. They reduce vertebral and hip fractures, which is why guidelines name them first-line, with extra roles in Paget disease and bone metastases.
Answer: bisphosphonates.
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