PMR, Osteoporosis and Fosamax?
Recently diagnosed with PMR, I am now taking prednisone ( 20 mg per day). I am scheduled to begin treatment with Fosamax. Thoughts, opinions, experiences with this routine would be greatly appreciated.
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I am in my 6th year of pmr. I had osteopenia when I started prednisone. One year later I had a bone density scan which revealed some osteoporosis. My endocrinologist suggested Reclast, a once a year infusion. I chose that route mainly because I did not want to deal with more pills. Seems that all the bone meds have undesirable side effects. In 2020 and 2021 I had Reclast infusions - one infusion each year. In 2022 my bone density test was improved so I decided to wait till 2024 for the next scan results before having any more infusions. I had my scan yesterday and I am in the osteopenia range. The imaging dept where I have had my dexa scans has changed equipment from GE to Hologic so they could not accurately say I had an increase or decrease change. This newer method says I'm in the osteopenia range. Radiological recommendations included weight bearing exercises, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, Pharmocologic therapy is indicated for people whose bone density falls in the T-score range where my numbers are especially if other risk factors are present. Still taking prednisone must be a big risk factor. I'm 75. There's a risk involved either way. Which is riskier?? Reclast side effects or possible fracture?? I was hoping to be done with prednisone by now.