@ppat4pr it is true that anti-resorptives like Fosamax affect bone turnover , and it is turnover that creates new, quality bone. Bone density improves, however, on Fosamax. If Fosamax is used for a short time, the dental and femur fracture side effects are rare. At a certain age, I would even consider Prolia, but it is very hard to get off.

With osteopenia you may be able to try more natural approaches first, especially with the help of your more holistic doctor. But be careful. I am buying a hip pad for icy weather! Do your two doctors communicate? Is it a PCP who is recommending meds or an endocrinologist?

I will say that for my mother, starting at age 88, falls were an issue, so working on balance is a good idea too!

Do you have an Osteostrong franchise near you. I don’t take any medication and this program I uses no medication but is a series of weight bearing exercises.
Just go in and talk to them.

@ppar4r have you been on any meds before? Is this your first time considering Fosamax? Are your bones close to -2.5 anywhere? Do you have GERD? Do you take calcium and D3? These are all important things to discuss with your doctor, as well as whether you might be able to take a natural route. You can buy the books by Dr. Keith McCormick for advice on that holistic approach.