What to do!
My endocrinologist today through her nurse has let me know that my tests are back & she wants me to go on either Fosomax or
Prolia & she wants my decision like tomorrow! I know I have to get going on something as I am 86 with bad bone density numbers - like 3.6, 3.6 & 3.4. What to do!!!!!!!!
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.
With those numbers at your age I don't think you have much choice, sadly. -2.5 is officially osteoporosis. My doctor told me that older osteoporosis patients sometimes fracture their bones merely by turning over in bed. As to Fosamax v. Prolia all I can say is that Fosamax gave my mother severe jaw problems, so I am biased. Others will be in a better position to comment.
Re all the bad possibilities of numbers like mine at my age (86), I am doing pretty well considering. I am single (divorced my ex eons ago) & have run a cat rescue here for almost 20 years. I have 9 in my house, some of whom sleep with me regularly. I have always wanted a magical genie to come do the litter boxes but so far none has appeared
I also have had COPD for a while, maybe 6 years. Osteoporosis is my latest gift & one I would very much like to return!
I have only fallen once, about a year ago,& fractured a bone in my wrist which hurts on occasion & then I wear that bionic looking brace for a while & things are better.
I live in Wisconsin on a little Wisconsin River village where there is a place right next to the river that serves wonderful macaroni & cheese & dark beer. I am going to head out there now!
I left a message with the UW doctor explaining why I COULD not take Fosomax (pre-existing bad esophagus condition) & asking her if she would prescribe Tymlos. That was Thursday morning. Left another message to her nurse this morning re that. Have not heard from either of them. And now we are t the weekend.
Guinevere, after they give you the rush.
I'd thought to suggest you have them expedite your request. Your doctor may have to do some research. After, the office will have to get insurance approval. It can take some time expecially if the insurance doesn't want to approve and they have to appeal. Still, your request should have generated a response. I suspect they were surprised, probably expecting you to resist.
Excellent choice, Tymlos.
I especially like that you left the re message this morning.
@guinivere hope you can do Tymlos!!!!
Your description of where you live makes me want to visit!
Thank you so much for your response. My endocrinologist wants me on Fosamax & my GP agrees. I was on it years ago & had some problems with my jaw so am very reluctant to take it again. As I said, I am 84 and rather sedentary. I would appreciate your view. I do not know what bone turnover is.
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.
@gently I find this very interesting. So you will not be on any medication for a month and will restart Forteo. No bisphosphonate? Is your doctor good with this plan?
The bisphosphonates scare me with the side affects and the fact that you can only be on them for a certain period of time. At 63 I will be starting Tymlos so will be on that for 2 years and then follow up with a bisphosphonate for up to 5 years. Then what?
It would be great to continue with an anabolic after a month break.
Gently, it's also the home of Frank Lloyd Wright & his home & estate with Taliesin School of Architecture are right across the river!
Basically I did resist. She wanted me to start with Fosomax & then at some point to Prolia. I am ok with Prolia after something else but it can't be anything that has the gastro/esophageal effects that Fosomax has as I am already on a special (but mild) diet re the state of my esophagus after an examination of same several years ago.