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My Experience on Evenity for Treating Osteoporosis
Thought I would share for those considering or on Evenity for osteoporosis:
Afer much research and discussions with my GP and Cardiologist, I have decided to start my treatment with Evenity injections. As with all drugs, there are many side effects. My biggest concerns were stroke and heart attack. However, considering that I do no have any history for either, for me personally, the benefits outweigh the risks. As my GP said to me, "if everyone only thought about the side effects of the drugs, no one would be taking them".
I had my first injections (subcutaneously in the back of each arm) on June 30th. The nurse that administered the injections discussed the drug in depth, along with all the possibilities that may occur. She also mentioned that for all the patients that she has seen, none has had any side effects.
The injections are once a month for only one year, so I'm hoping that this works well for me and I can improve my bone density, especially in my spine, where I need it the most.
My endocronologist has also prescribed Hydrochlorthiazide for my idiopathic hypocalcemia. I have an appointment with an allergist this month to confirm whether I still have an allergy to sulfa drugs, since this drug contains sulfa. Apart from this I take D3 orally and try to obtain additional calcium through foods not supplements. Trying to walk 3-4 times a week and will begin with a few weight bearing exercises.
My journey began September, 2019 when I was diagnosed with severe osteoporosis. After waiting to see three doctors, receiving three denials from insurance company for Evenity, which took several months, I am hopefully on my way for a favorful outcome.
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is it always given in the arm. i have very thin arms
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1 ReactionI have had my Evenity shots in my abdomen. They don't hurt much there at all...just a slight discoloration in the skin the day after. The subcutaneous injection (very short needle) can also be given in the thighs. I haven't tried that or my arms. I chose my abdomen because I can hug it if it hurts.
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3 ReactionsI have had 8 months of shots. Always choose abdomen. Some pain after, but very manageable . I was told that back of arms can be more painful for a few days.
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1 Reaction@barbyb50
My 8 months have been in the back of my arms and luckily no pain
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1 ReactionThis week I had a DEXA scan after 8 months of Evenity.
My results were very good.
Example, hip from minus 3 to minus 2.4
Even though I know most of the benefit occurs in 6 months, I will continue to #12.
I posted this so others can see positive effects
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7 Reactions@clowny What will be your drug once you finish Evenity? Thanks.
Probably Reclast infusion. Once a year for three years
@pyates That's weird. Sounds backwards, as Tymlo and Forteo are prescribed to build bone and are usually prescribed first followed by something to avoid reabsorption.
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1 Reaction@willowmena
Thanks for the heads up.
I'll ask my endocrinologist about this. Possibly I misunderstood him about Tymlo and Forteo. I definitely trust him, as he's very experienced at treating osteoporosis and has a position at a prestigious big city teaching hospital.
Basically, I'm just trusting the doctor to know what to do. I'll tell you what he says.
@millironk My first injections were in my arms. I found them excruciatingly painful. I switched to my abdomen since I used to have heparin and Lovenox shots there twice a day and it was definitely much more bearable. The abdominal shots are much much easier for me.
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