Which medication is used for the treatment of osteoporosis and is branded as "Actonel"?

Actonel is the brand name for the medication risedronate, which is classified as a bisphosphonate. It is specifically designed to help prevent and treat osteoporosis by inhibiting bone resorption, thereby reducing the risk of fractures in individuals with weakened bone density. Risedronate works by binding to the bone surfaces and influencing the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone breakdown. By slowing down the process of bone loss, it helps maintain or improve bone density.

The other medications listed do not have the same indications or mechanisms of action associated with osteoporosis treatment. While meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily for pain and inflammation, hydroxyurea is often used in the treatment of certain cancers and sickle cell disease. Prednisone is a corticosteroid used for a variety of inflammatory conditions, but it can actually lead to bone loss when used long-term, which underscores the importance of using medications like risedronate for osteoporosis. Thus, risedronate is the appropriate choice for addressing osteoporosis, highlighting its specific effectiveness in this area.