← Return to Tymlos at 70+ - Pros & Cons with severe osteoporosis

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@misst1970

I was diagnosed with fairly severe osteoporosis at the age of 51 (genetics are a bitch, I had always exersized extensively, taken calcium and vitamin d, eaten healthy). Obviously, for me, not taking meds wasn't an option. After meeting with the bone specialist and a PhD who does many of the clinical trials on osteoporosis meds I opted to go on Tymlos so I could "build up my bone" before going on a maintenance medication. I was on Tymlos for two years, my spinal BMD increased by 16% the first year and about 4% the next year so I was very pleased with the results. My hip increased a little as well. I then followed it up two weeks ago with a Reclast infusion to "lock in the gains" I've made. I had no issues with either. I was very nervous doing the daily Tymlos injections at first, but it comes in a pen and is incredibly simple to do. The first couple of Tymlos injections I felt slightly lightheaded for a few minutes after, the Tymlos nurse noted to stay either laying back or at least seated for at least 15 minutes post injection and that never happened again. I would go with an anabolic bone building medication to first increase your density and then follow it up with a bisphosphonate to protect you from losing more. I will do two more annual Reclast infusions and then go off drugs for several years since it stays in your system for some time (will do bone marker testing to determine when it's time for a next step). Good luck in your journey. Meds can be scary, but breaking bones and compression fractures is terrifying as well. I knew I would be facing that without meds (my mom has broken 16 bones and lost 4 inches of height from compression fractures). Talk to your doctor. I was ready to move forward, but will admit when I first started I almost cancelled each of my treatments after reading horror stories on forums. I'm glad I discussed my concerns with my doc and decided to move forward. Good luck!

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Replies to "I was diagnosed with fairly severe osteoporosis at the age of 51 (genetics are a bitch,..."

Thanks for sharing your story. It is nice to have this support. It is daunting listening to all the stories of everyone’s experience. Makes me not feel so alone.
I did talk to my Endocrinologist and his clinical Pharmacist. That was helpful. Still freaks me out. I thought I was doing everything right- physically active, good weight, healthy diet. As you said, “ genetics are a bitch.