Are you taking Reclast for osteoporosis?

Posted by Becky, Volunteer Mentor @becsbuddy, Jul 21, 2020

Two years ago I was diagnosed with pretty bad osteoporosis because of the prednisone I was on for my autoimmune disease. I started taking Fosamax (a bisphosphonate) and had no problems. Today, the endocrinologist suggested that I switch to Reclast for 3 yearly infusions. Has anyone else taken this drug? What side effects have you had?
Thanks

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I had my final Evenity injections on 12/28 then saw my endocrinologist several weeks ago to discuss a follow-up with Reclast. He said I should get it in the “next two months.” I mentioned that I would like a slow infusion and he said that would not be a problem and that people requested it all of the time. I would also need a blood test within one month of the appointment. When I called the scheduler (the infusion center is in the oncology department), they said if I wanted a slow infusion it would need to be in the doctor’s orders. Something to consider in advance of your appointment. Additionally, I did not know, or think to ask, what blood tests were being ordered and subsequently found out that one was the CTX test. My score was low, 186, but it was without fasting and taken mid-morning. Other tests were vitamin D hydroxy and a basic metabolic panel. My doctor will amend the Reclast order and does not think I need to redo the CTX test. My infusion is scheduled for 2/15 and I plan to hydrate a lot and take Tylenol on the schedule mentioned in a previous post.

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I had my second reclast infusion last July. The first infusion put me in the hospital for pain management. Horrible pain! After research I requested to administer the infusion no last 45 minutes. I drank lots of water the day before and took Tylenol. ( The doctor also gave me pain medication to take right before the infusion. Prepare for your infusion...it can make a big big difference! Wishing you all the best.

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@windyshores

@dna41 a doc told me yesterday that they do 1mg Reclast all the time. Full dose is 5mg. You have to do the smaller dose more often though.

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windyshores, I am going to infusion center this morning for 9th Evenity injections. I will ask about Reclast as I know they administer it there.
I would also like to have a lower dose, but cannot claim it’s due to petite size. 🙂

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@susanfalcon52

windyshores, I am going to infusion center this morning for 9th Evenity injections. I will ask about Reclast as I know they administer it there.
I would also like to have a lower dose, but cannot claim it’s due to petite size. 🙂

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@susanfalcon52 perhaps you could request it as a "test dose." You can also request IV hydration and slow infusion (one hour was suggested to me, even for 1 mg). And tylenol. As others have mentioned 🙂

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Prolia injections every 6 months

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@dna41

I have the same concern as you. I will be having Reclast but I am also very small. I asked my endo about the dosage concerning different size people and she said it doesn't matter. That doesn't make sense to me.

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Mine said the same thing, but I agree with you, it doesn't make sense to me either.

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I have had yearly infusions of Reclast for the past 34 years. NO side effects at all! Quick and easy!

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@marythemind

I have had yearly infusions of Reclast for the past 34 years. NO side effects at all! Quick and easy!

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@marythemind

This is quite interesting, can you tell us a little of your story. Would love to hear your diag's, age, fractures, and dental issues?

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Oh my, I typed in 34 years, meant to say 3 years!!! Sorry! I fell when a cat tripped me and fractured my left hip, had surgery where 3 screws (pins) were placed to help bone heal. Before this happened, I had been diagnosed with osteopenia, after hip breaking, diagnosed with Osteoporosis. I never took any oral pills or shots. My Endocrinologist immediately suggested to start having Reclast infusions once a year for 3 years, this has greatly improved my bones! I continue to have checkups with my Dr. and bone scans every 2 years. The Reclast infusions do not make me feel sick or tired at all! Before and during the infusion, I always drink lots of water, and afterwards, also. I have never had to take Tylenol or any pain reliever after the infusion.
the only bad thing about my hip, is 5 years after the repair surgery, I still have daily pain in my hip! I wish I had received a hip replacement instead of the long screws, which poke the inside of my leg. OUCH! Dr. says it is because I have very thin build and skinny legs.

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Oh, Mary again, I forgot to say that I am an active 75 year old female. I was 70 when I broke my hip. I have had no dental issues since I began Reclast. I tell my dentist and periodontist that I take Reclast.

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