This article discusses the integration of complementary and alternative medicine therapies as part of the healthcare decision-making dialogue between nurse practitioners and patients seeking relief of menopause-related symptoms.

Bisphosphonates have been safely used to treat osteoporosis, effectively reducing fracture risk after 3 to 5 years of treatment. Recent concerns about long-term safety coupled with posttreatment fracture risk reduction have increased support for drug holidays. The decision to start low-risk patients on drug holidays must be based on current fracture risk assessment.