Connect
Tymlos and loss of bone density in forearm
I’ve been taking Tymlo for about 7 months. I had read that there was a possibility of losing bone density in the forearm. I was having some discomfort and weakness in my forearm and wrist. I had a bone density test done a few days ago. It showed that my bone density has improved significantly in the lumbar and slightly in the hip and femur which is good, but the forearm numbers are terrible -4.7. I’ve never had my forearm density checked before so I don’t know what it was originally, but I’m very concerned about this. I haven’t spoken to my doctor yet wondering what if anyone else has knowledge about this? It’s so upsetting that these medicines are helpful in someways and harmful in others. Thanks.🙏🏻
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.
Connect
Osteoporosis doesn't have symptoms before fractures, so have you considered another reason for the feelings of weakness and pain? Even with a score of -4.5, unless there are fractures. Do you know if you have fractures, or arthritis, or any other reason for these problems?
From the American Journal of Nephrology
"Trabecular and cortical bone can be differentially affected by hormones and medications. Daily injections of parathyroid hormone (PTH) decrease the cortical bone mass and increase in trabecular bone mass. The significant increase in strength is attributable to the increase in trabecular bone."
I have usually read that PTH anabolics like Forto increase trabecular bone in spine substantially but cause less progress in cortical bone (hip, wrist). So this statement is more negative about the latter because it mentions decrease. I have read/heard that Evenity might be better with cortical and possibly bisphosphonates too.
I don't even want my wrist scanned! I did Tymlos, 4 months Evenity, now Reclast, Are you going to finish Tymlos and follow up with Evenity, or Reclast?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHi @kaa1 the bmd decrease in forearm after therapy were well documented in clinical studies of tymlos as well as forteo. The explanation was that both meds could increase cortical porosity and bone in the forearm (distal 1/3 radius, the common site of DXA measurement) mostly consists of cortical bone. However, this phenomenon didnt appear to correlate an increased rate of spontaneous fractures in forearm during those studies period or post-study monitoring period. Most forearm fractures in elderly are due to blunt trauma (could be low trauma) or from breaking a fall.
I’ve never had my forearm bmd measured however won’t be surprised to see a very low T score at 1/3 distal radius, as studies generally show lower T scores at this site when compared with that of spine or hip. Hope a consultation with your doctor or maybe an X-ray will quickly ease your concern.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThank you for your time and explaining the science to me (which I had read about, but did not understand all that well). I’m hoping I can stay on the Tymlos. I’ll wait to see what my doctor says.