@gravity3
My rheumatologist discussed why he is recommending medication for osteoporosis now, even though I have still have osteopenia. My DEXA this year, compared to 2 years ago showed significant decrease in the bone density of the lumbar spine and both femoral neck areas.

He feels it's important to preserve what bone density I have now. Since I have RA, infusions for that every 8 weeks, thyroid illness, some other meds I've taken. I'm 68 and have been disabled with autoimmune illness since I was 30.

As for the meds, he wrote these three down:
alendrondronate
reclast
prolia

One thing I read is that people with autoimmune illness have a harder time with side effects with Reclast. (This actually did nothing to increase my faith in him about bone meds)
Lumbar Spine 1.6
L. Femur Neck 2.1
R. Femur Neck 1.9
Femur Total L. 1.7
Femur Total R. 1.7