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My Experience on Evenity for Treating Osteoporosis
Thought I would share for those considering or on Evenity for osteoporosis:
Afer much research and discussions with my GP and Cardiologist, I have decided to start my treatment with Evenity injections. As with all drugs, there are many side effects. My biggest concerns were stroke and heart attack. However, considering that I do no have any history for either, for me personally, the benefits outweigh the risks. As my GP said to me, "if everyone only thought about the side effects of the drugs, no one would be taking them".
I had my first injections (subcutaneously in the back of each arm) on June 30th. The nurse that administered the injections discussed the drug in depth, along with all the possibilities that may occur. She also mentioned that for all the patients that she has seen, none has had any side effects.
The injections are once a month for only one year, so I'm hoping that this works well for me and I can improve my bone density, especially in my spine, where I need it the most.
My endocronologist has also prescribed Hydrochlorthiazide for my idiopathic hypocalcemia. I have an appointment with an allergist this month to confirm whether I still have an allergy to sulfa drugs, since this drug contains sulfa. Apart from this I take D3 orally and try to obtain additional calcium through foods not supplements. Trying to walk 3-4 times a week and will begin with a few weight bearing exercises.
My journey began September, 2019 when I was diagnosed with severe osteoporosis. After waiting to see three doctors, receiving three denials from insurance company for Evenity, which took several months, I am hopefully on my way for a favorful outcome.
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Hi: I am a 70-year-old woman facing the Evenity decision. I am a cancer survivor who never fully regained her energy level, but I do a lot of walking and exercise every day. I am concerned because I weigh under 100 pounds and typically do not tolerate medication well. Are there any other lightweights out there who have tried it?
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1 ReactionHi
I'm 72, started Evenity 8 months ago at a steady 110 lb. and take no other medications and with spine dexa -5. One thing I've learned from following this group, and one on Facebook, is that side effects are unpredictable. I've tried every other generation of osteoporosis meds starting at age 40 and this is the first one I've tolerated. I've gained a solid 7 lb, mostly in my abdomen, where I get the shots. I have fatigue and random body aches and headaches, but I'm retired, so I can work around those and prioritize my exercise and walking routines. We've all got fingers crossed that this treatment will be effective. You won't know if you don't try and you can stop if you find it unbearable. Good luck with your decision and your journey. I've found these support groups to be helpful.
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1 ReactionChristina, you are wonderful. Thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. I too have been through the whole range of osteo drugs with little if any success. Having already suffered three compression fractures, I am concerned about not trying anything. Thank you so much.
I just had the first Evenity shot yesterday. 9 hours later, both arms started hurting at exactly the same time. This morning, the injection sites each have lumps about 2x1 1/2 inches and are quite warm. Not sure if this is normal. Also, I thougth I saw a Mayo Connect site for Evenity and RA, but now can't find it. Does anyone else use that?
Thank you.
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I’m getting first injection today
Very encouraging reply
I begin today with evenity
This happened to me also once or twice. The lumps subsided in a few days. The clinic where I received injections used both medial technicians and RN’s to administer the injections, depending on staffing, and then changed to only RN’s. I noticed the RNs massaged the area before giving the shot and they were careful to ensure the needle was solely in the
skin fold and administered slowly. I don’t recall getting the lumps when the RN’s gave the shots. However, Some of the techs also gave me shots with no issues. In any case, from what I have read, The lumps aren’t that unusual and for me, didn’t cause any long term issues. Hope this helps.
Arlene,
Any suggestions for getting insurance approval for Evenity? I too have been denied. As of now, I have only made the one attempt. My doctor doesn't seem too interested in helping me appeal. She really wanted me to take Tymlos. But I had a different plan. Besides, I do not intend to give myself injections everyday for two years!! That's crazy!
So, can you give me any pointers as to how to get insurance to pay? I have not started any treatment yet. To show medical necessity for Evenity will be difficult because I cannot show that I had problems with other drugs.
What a mess!! Will wait for any ideas you can share.
Hi,
Just from my reading on this site, sounds like the lumps are kinda normal.
One person posted that she had the lumps in both arms, but the lumps went away after couple days.
As to the Mayo Connect site for Evenity and RA, not sure about that.
Keep reading.
Keep us all posted on your progress!
Cheers!
Arlene, Can you update us on your experience with Evenity? Was it successful, or have you moved onto other drugs?
Thank you in advance for any added info for those of us just starting our journey.
Cheers!