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← Return to alendronate and no progress
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The recommended sequence is to start with an anabolic to build bone (e.g. Tymlos or Forteo) followed by a biphosphonate to preserve gains. A big issue is that your typical PCP or NP has no idea about this. I would never, ever, ever let a PCP or NP advise me on treatment. They are typically working off information they learned 15 years ago. Even many endocrinologists are not up to date on everything.
If this forum has taught us anything, it's that we have to be as proactive as possible to learn as much as possible.
Replies to "The recommended sequence is to start with an anabolic to build bone (e.g. Tymlos or Forteo)..."
You are so right about being proactive about this disease. My PCP wanted to put me on Fosamax after my DEXA scan showed Osteoporosis. Thank goodness I said no, I would like to see an endocrinologist before taking any meds. While I have not seen an endocrinologist yet, I have read a lot and watched and listened to a lot of podcasts. The best and most educational book has been Great Bones by Keith McCormick. It is tough to find, but he does have several interviews on youtube. I am including the link below to a podcast he did about the various osteoporosis meds. I have also been listening a lot to Dr Doug Lucas. I especially like his podcasts about nutrition. They both agree that it is possible to slow down and even reverse Osteoporosis by the right diet, weight bearing and resistance exercises. They also both say that there is a time when a person HAS TO GO ON medication. I would advise everyone to go on YouTube and listen to Dr Keith McCormick and Dr Doug Lucas. I believe they have our best interest.
Keith McCormick and OP meds: https://youtu.be/zD4sAllkoRs
Doug Lucas on nutrition: https://youtu.be/2lENp65QL7A
Education is power! Educate yourself before starting on any of these medications. At least you will know the right questions to ask.
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The endocrinologist I saw suggested alendronate initially. I have been seeing a nurse practitioner, and I like her. She has osteoporosis, too. But I think the suggestion to see a osteoporosis specialist makes sense.