Forteo or Reclast?
I am 79 years old and went through a quintuple bypass in 2022. Lung cancer 2023 into 2024-January. Ended up with a T6 Compression Fracture in March of 2024 which follow up care was missed. Now in 2026 I have been in excruciating pain on a daily basis and wearing a brace which helps my rib cage. I am waiting to either get Forteo before spinal surgery but the endocrinologist wants me to do Reclast. My spine surgeon suggested Forteo. What should I do now? I have been suffering for so long and have severe degenerative disc disease. Thank you...
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I'm so sorry you've been dealing with this for so long. Since your spine surgeon and endocrinologist are recommending different treatments, maybe ask them to discuss your case with each other. Your surgeon may be thinking about optimizing bone quality for spinal surgery and your endocrinologist may be focused on long-term osteoporosis treatment. It would be helpful to understand why each is recommending their approach in your specific situation. Given your history of lung cancer, bypass surgery, and ongoing severe pain, be sure your persistent pain has been thoroughly evaluated before moving forward. Wishing you the very best.
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5 Reactions@babs10
Thank you so much for your kind words. I will definitely move in the right direction. The Lord has been with me and guiding me. My prayers for you too...
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2 ReactionsI’m sorry you’re in such awful pain. It sounds terrible. None of these are quick fixes. Forteo (teraparatide) involves a daily injection for two years. It’s a big commitment and takes a long time to see the results. (I just finished my two years and am still waiting for my repeat Dexa scan). Typically you take Forteo/teraparatide only after you “fail” Reclast (once a year infusion) or Prolia (twice a year injection). I started with Reclast, which didn’t seem to help, injected myself nightly with Forteo for two years, and am now on Prolia. But your situation is different and may involve unique considerations. Good luck to you!
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