I had no side effects from Fosomax. I do take a low dose 35 mg, not the usual 70 mg. I, too, was worried about side effects so told my doc I wanted the low dose.

My DEXA numbers have improved.

I now work out with a trainer twice a week - weights are pretty heavy.

I was a runner for 30 years - maybe bones just weaken with age - because running/hiking didn’t keep me from getting osteoporosis, and doctors always said walking/running is weight bearing. Or maybe my bones would have been worse without all the running/walking.