Hi Jeray,
I moved your message to this discussion about treating osteoporosis so you can meet others members discussing the exact things your asking about re Fosamax etc. Here you'll meet @lanadee @edieguinn @jaleen @cherriann @tessie @dolan @grandmabubblestwin
Jeray, I encourage you to click VIEW & REPLY in the email and read all the messages in this discussion. There are some good resources included to help your decision making.

You can also read more members' experiences with Fosamax in this discussion http://mayocl.in/2gm3GcW

What side effect do concerns you the most?

My doctor has me on yearly infusion of Reclast. No side effects. Next one March

I have metastatic breast cancer.  It has metastatised to my bones so my oncologist put me on a monthly injection of Xgeva.  I am now on a quarterly injection of Xgeva after about 2 years of the monthly injections.  I think if you read up on Xgeva you will find that it is designed to increase bone density.  I personally have had no side effects from the injections.  The shots are about $2000 so you might check to make sure they are covered by your insurance.  I also eat a Tums for calcium every day.  I have had not broken bones and my bone scans show an increase in bone density.  Good luck.

Hello Wandering, I read your post and want you to know I am so sorry to hear about your battle with breast cancer. I know it is tough. I am glad your Xgeva is working for you! I am going to try the Soy isoflavones as it contains Genistein. Some studies have indicated this also builds bone but is not FDA approved yet. I can't bring myself to use a medicine that is controversial. Many blessings to you! lanadee

I am struggling with making a decision on medication for osteoporosis. The potential side effects are for me frightening. I have started working with a trainer. Have increased my calcium intake—by of all things turning egg shells into a powder and taking about a quarter teaspoon a day which is supposed to have about 450 mg of calcium. I have also been reading about soluble corn fiber having an effect on bone density based on a small study coming out of Purdue university. I am wondering if others have come across the egg shell and corn studies.Thanks, Gloria

I was not familiar with the soluble corn fiber. Here is a link to an article on it, for others who may be interested:
https://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/releases/2016/Q3/soluble-corn-fiber-can-help-young-women-build-bone,-and-older-women-preserve-bone.html