insight about taking Fosamax while on Prednisone

I have PMR/GCA for 2 years and have been on fosamax for most of that time. I take a pill once a week on an empty stomach. No problems. Although I’m tapered to 5 mg Prednisone, my doctor wants me to stay on fosomax until I’m off of prednisone.

Hi @karinaph. I took fosamax for over a year while on prednisone and actually lost more bone. I'm now getting a Prolia shot every six months. After the first year, my bone density did not worsen, which was a start! I'm waiting for the results of this year's bone scan.

Thank you Kim fir your first hand experience. That must have been startling and upsetting to have BD go down. Did anyone explain how that could be? Is the prolia an infusion? I wish you well. I’m still debating. Getting a decent scan soon and will know my baseline from last Jan. My cursory awareness of Fosamax is that it’s not all it’s stacked up to be.

Or maybe it's my crazy system! lol Prolia is an injection that my rheumatologist administers twice a year. I actually prefer it because, at this point, I feel 'pilled out!' Luckily, I have not had any side effects from it, though I have heard of jaw pain etc. I didn't have any side effects from the fosamax either except to continue to lose bone. My Prednisone dosage is not stable, so that maybe was a reason that the fosamax didn't work so well. And really, who knows, had I not taken fosamax that year, I might have lost even more bone than I did!?!?

Thanks again for your insights. Yeah, I read about both of these meds this morning .... ughh! I really hate hate hate having to take things like this. I’m going to get the DEX scan next week, so I’ll get my info before I start. I’m going to consult with my GP and endo doc before starting. I have thyroid (hashimoto) and take meds, plus have a tendency for acid reflux, which seems to be an issue for many with Fosamax. Prolia sounds like the way to go, two injections/year. I’m pilled out too. Never thought this would become my world. Mostly vitamins/supplements but still. Did you get your blood Calcium tested before you started? This guidance I saw online said that should be measured prior to taking Fosamax as well as Prolia.

Thanks Greg for your input. Do you have DEX scan data? Has your bone density stabilized or increased? Sounds like you’re the perfect candidate for this med. good for you!

I don't remember about getting my calcium checked. But like you, I have GERD and hypothyroidism. I never thought this would be my life either! I used to joke around in high school health class....I'm sure my old teacher is reading my posts and laughing now!!! lol

All of the doctors recommend something for the bones. Mine wanted to put me on Prolia. My hip bones are going downhill faster after taking Prednisone for two years. I have chosen to not add another medication with more side effects as I feel I have enough to deal with already. My choice and it may not be the right one-who knows??