Connect
Hesitant to begin drug treatment for my osteoporosis
Hello! My first post here as a new member. I am an active 69 year old female who was diagnosed many years ago with osteopenia but now have osteoporosis. When diagnosed with osteopenia I gave several drugs a try. I had side effects from all the oral choices I took, and when giving myself Forteo shots, broke out in hives all over my body. After that, I decided I would take my chances and go the natural route to keep my bones healthy with diet, consistent exercise and Calcium/Vitamin supplements. Fast forward to present time my last bone density scan was worrisome, (a -4,4 T score in my spine). An endocrinologist strongly suggested treatment, (shots or infusions), but I still fear side effects. I am currently trying to educate and empower myself by researching all options. I am already a bit overwhelmed with so many differing opinions. Drugs or no drugs?! The possible serious side effects of drug treatment still frighten me. Has anyone here diagnosed with more advanced osteoporosis, remained fracture free? Am I at such a high risk that I’m doomed without drug treatment? Thank you in advance for any advice, experiences, etc.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.
Connect
I’m so sorry you have had and still have these terrible experiences, Judy.
For me, a spine specialist, and my rheumatologist urged me to take Evenity. As you read, it worked out for me.
I would definitely consider changing doctors. If you live in a state where the Mayo Clinic has a campus: Minnesota (Rochester-Main Campus); Arizona; Florida; a doctor could advise you. A doctor must be licensed in the state where the patient lives. If you live in Maryland, you can seek advice from doctors at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
I wish you the best of luck in healing quickly.
That would be awesome!! What do they spray it with? I will call to ask for it before my next appointment on the 23rd. Thank you!!
I was going to have a consult at the Rochester Mayo and there was no requirement for me to live in Minnesota. Did you mean that the doc needs to be licensed in the state where they practice. I may have misread.
@veganista. @clj9821 et al: dbamos1945 here with my 1st Evenity self-administered injections report regarding “icing”.
I didn’t have the “freeze spray” they have at Dr office, so I put frozen ice bag on my belly about 5 minutes prior to disinfecting belly for shot. I always ask for the freeze spray prior to my dr shots in the office. Evenity Injections were uneventful but I followed protocol precisely.
I hope this helps.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThank you! The infusion center needs to know this option for those that it would be beneficial.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionIf you had problems with other bisphosphonates as I did, don't try Reclast. After breast cancer treatment many years ago, bisphosphonates were recommended for 5 years following treatment. I tried them all and they all caused me too much bone pain to continue. Last summer, I tried Reclast for osteoporosis. It was a disaster. 5 days after the infusion, my legs, knees, ankles and wrists swelled horribly. The pain was awful. I could hardly move. The swelling finally came down after several days on a very strong prescription anti- inflammatory. My body still hurts 10 months later. I will not use reclast again.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 ReactionsIt's in your body & you can't get it out. It will fade away & then you're ready for the next injection. That is, if you decide to continue it.
That's what I didn't like about a shot every 6 months. You are stuck with the side effects for 4 to 6 months.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction