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Is medication really necessary?

Osteoporosis & Bone Health | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (48)
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@cs53

Thanks for both of you getting back to me. I do take Teriparatide every other day. I take magesium complex at night, and Emma or Senna at night. I am fairly regular this way, but I'm afraid of being dependent on meds for bowel movements. Is that the price you have to pay to rebuild your bones?
I do want to get new bloodwork ASAP, a 24 hour urine test and a new DEXA - even if I have to pay for the DEXA myself. My reading for calcium about 2 months in was 8.9. Actually the lowest it has ever been for me, since I am not supplementing with much calcium on this medication. My Dr. felt that indicated that my calcium levels would not go too high.
My current fatigue is concerning however. I'll check if I can switch to Tymlos, not sure if my insurance would cover. When I first started, I had to pay $800 a month for 2 months until I got Medicare. At least there is a $2000 cap for medication for the year.

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Replies to "Thanks for both of you getting back to me. I do take Teriparatide every other day...."
sondrachristo1 | @sondrachristo1 | 3 days ago

So sorry you are going through all this, I know the journey is hard.
You may not see much change in the dexa so soon, but bone turnover markers will give you a better idea if the treatment is working.
Has the doctor checked your vitamin D? A number in the 20’s is considered normal, but I think a number closer to 50 is more optimal.
If the side effects are intolerable, then you might want to change meds.
Have you tried oral bisphosphonates?
Have you fractured in the past?
Everyone is different, our care needs to be centered around our specific needs.

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