I did Fosamax for 5+ years and still fractured. I was given 4 months of Tymlos before insurance cut me off and now my doctor is trying to get me on the generic version of Forteo.

After my fracture diagnosis in March, I finally undertook the research I should have done back in 2018 when I started on Fosamax.

I think we have been poorly served by the medical community. I think newbies should understand the pros and cons of all aspects of osteoporosis treatment including meds, lifestyle, and exercise.

No doctor ever covered any of this when I was first diagnosed with osteopenia. I received recommendations to take calcium and Vitamin D and to "get some exercise, preferably weight bearing".

No one ever told me that the Fosamax would shut down all bone remodeling, not just bone resorption. I believe this contributed to my fracture although no doctor or drug company would ever agree.

New diabetics get a lot of support with nutrition and lifestyle recommendations and I suspect medication information (not a diabetic so I can't comment on this but when my spouse showed signs of pre-diabetes he was sent to a diet class).

It seems we should have similar options when we are first facing this diagnosis and not be left to come to our own conclusions which may mean we avoid drugs that might help us or take drugs for years without understanding the long term impact.