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Osteoporosis meds: How do they work?
Osteoporosis & Bone Health | Last Active: Jan 2, 2024 | Replies (259)Comment receiving replies
Your question mentioned that some meds do not help you build bone. That used to be true-- until a few years ago, the meds, bisphosphonates and others, slowed the bone turnover. But newer ones that work like a hormone we have, PTH, have resulted in stronger bones. These types of meds have to be injected-- Forteo and Tymlos. Many people on this chatgroup have had bad experiences with meds, but people can have different reactions. I took Fosamax for 5 years without any bad effects. My bone density stabilized then even went up a bit. But when density started down again, my doctor (an endocrinologist) recommended Tymlos, because it has been shown to increase density in the spine. I wanted to build on what I have, not wait until I lose more. I walk on a treadmill for an hour every day and usually lift weights 2-3 times a week-- and have for 8 years, and try to get my calcium from diet, but with exercise and calcium and Vit D I still developed osteoporosis in my spine. I did not like the idea of self injecting but I tried it, and have been on Tymlos for over 6 months, with no side effects after the first week or so as I was getting used to it. Until I have a follow up bone scan, I will not know if it is increasing my density or not. But from this one person's experience, I can say that not everyone will have muscle pain etc. I understand people not wanting to use meds, but for me the natural process of bone loss in the spine is something I wanted to avoid if I could. People's bodies are different, and risks are different. Good luck with whatever decision you make. Exercise is certainly helpful.
Replies to "Your question mentioned that some meds do not help you build bone. That used to be..."
Since this is the “General” Osteoporosis forum, I’d love to hear from those who have had positive experiences from the various Osteoporosis treatments. As so many have posted, those with negative experiences are more likely to share their experiences (which are helpful), but it would be equally helpful to hear from those who have had a good outcome from using those medications. I think we all understanding that lifestyle changes are important and should be continued regardless of the meds. But once meds are indicated, knowing the good results helps guide in making a personal decision on what to take.
I was recently diagnosed - at 69 - with spinal osteoporosis. (I have had scoliosis since adolescence and osteopenia for many years. No pain, but some stiffness. I avoid standing....was on bisphosphonates in my 50s, but femoral hip score was/is not bad, so new doc advised discontinuation of meds.)
...am seeing an endocrinologist Tuesday and will read relevant med. journal abstracts on medications before then.
...will ask about P.T. I have been doing water exercise, stationary bicycle, and other gym machines on low settings....stopped treadmill because of ankle problem, but could go back now....don’t know how much weight bearing exercise is actually good for spine....will get 2nd opinion before taking meds.
How are you doing with medication, etc.? There is a lot more research needed, so it’s good to share info. Thanks! Lisa
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@betterbones Congratulations Im glad it has helped you and you are right it all depends on the persons constitution You are one of a few Ive heard that it has helped My friend Im referring to was at first on Fosamex and after several years on it her jaw bone and teeth started to hurt so different people ,different strokes lol