Women who have had chemotherapy for breast cancer are at higher risk for osteoporosis. The cancer can cause the loss of bone mineral density, as can some of the chemotherapy drugs.
There are a few different options for reversing the loss of bone minerals. Doctors usually don’t like to prescribe estrogen to women who have had breast cancer. But you can take extra calcium and vitamin D. The recommended dose of calcium ranges from 1000 milligrams to 1500 milligrams, depending on your age and whether you are past menopause. Vitamin D is usually prescribed up to 800 IU per day.
In addition to supplemental calcium and vitamin D, there are some medications that can help. Alendronate has proven to be nearly as effective as estrogen. Raloxifene, while effective, has not been studied in women who have had breast cancer. Calcitonin seems to help most in women who are past menopause.
Weight-bearing exercise can also help combat the effects of osteoporosis. Regular walking, dancing, low-impact aerobics, or other forms of exercise can help strengthen your bones, as well as improve your overall conditioning.