alendronate and no progress
I have been taking alendronate (Fosamax generic) for 2 years. Just had another DEXA scan, and it showed slightly worse bone strength, by T score. My nurse practitioner thinks I should continue with the alendronate despite this. I have been diligent with calcium intake and vitamin D. Has anyone else had a similar experience?
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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.
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4 Reactions3 years no T score improvement for me. Waiting to begin Evenity infusions -& hoping for improvement
No fractures however on alendronate
I’ve been very careful. Also exercise. Supplements. But want and need better
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2 ReactionsThe 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.
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2 ReactionsI have not heard anyone mention a fragility score. Thanks for your input.
That makes good sense. Thank you for answering.
Thank you for sharing your story. I value hearing the experience and wisdom of others with this diagnosis.
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1 ReactionThat is what I've been taking as well. I also take 1000 mg of vit D daily (slightly more in the winter). I take occasional magnesium citrate, as it seem to help with leg pain and what I think is restless legs.
I think from reading these posts it seems a lot of us are looking for a treatment we can feel good about taking.
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1 ReactionIt comes with the Rems machine test, just like a frax risk score with Dexa machine.
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1 ReactionI had progress after 2 years with Alendronate and then loss at the next DEXA scan after the next 2 years. I was taken off of it right away and am now on Evenity.
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3 ReactionsInteresting, thanks for sharing this. It seems there are a lot of factors in play with whether or not alendronate/Fosamax will produce the hoped for result. I just read that caffeine interferes with calcium absorption, but it's unclear how big a factor this is, that is, how much caffeine intake affects the absorption, and to what extent. So many unknowns.
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