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← Return to Zero Results Tymlos
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These blood markers are controversial in the endo field. My doctor, who is "world class," said an entire conference could focus on this one question alone. He does not use CTX and P1NP, and says they do not really reflect what is going on in bone. Another doctor I see does use them but skeptically. McCormick relies no them heavily.
My bone markers do not match what I would expect from the gains in my DEXA. I don't know what to think and don't rely on bone markers for treatment decisions, though they are interesting. I do them properly. Since there is so much difference of opinion, I am skeptical of all of them.
Tymlos may improve bone quality even if bone density and bone markers do not show progress- I was told by my doctor.
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I was also told by my “world class” endocrinologist (who has done many studies herself on the effects of osteoporosis medications) that Forteo (similar to Tymlos) will strengthen bones even if increased density doesn’t show up on your DEXA. It can take years for the new bone to mineralize. Forteo (Tymlos) creates tunnels in bones which in effect creates new branches of bone which strengthen the bone overall. None of my endocrinologists use bone markers to determine if treatment should be continued or stopped, so I’m personally debating whether to get any done at my 3 month mark.
My endo would not do the bone marker tests. He said they are more valid on a population basis than an individual basis and it would not change what he is recommending. I don’t have a lot of Dr choices where I live and it took me many months to even have a consultation with him.
We are currently in an appeal process for my insurer to cover tymlos.
Meanwhile, I try to do all the things that support general good health.
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There's no question that dealing with osteoporosis can be a confusing and frustrating experience. Most other things, you expect the doctor to say "let's do this, it's standard treatment, here's what to expect." Here, you get experts who disagree with one another.
McCormick does point out that there's a difference between bone density and bone strength. I asked him about his own treatment, given his long history with fractures from a relatively young age. He took Forteo many years ago, but nothing since. He manages with nutrition and exercise. He said his spine is a -3.3. He is around 68 years old and still competes in triathlons.