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Treating Osteoporosis: What works for you?
Hi. I'm new to the site and am interested in treating osteoperosis. I'm 39 yo and recently had a bone density that showed I'm at -2.4. So, going through the intial "I can't believe it" stuff. 🙂
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@barbiep
Studies have shown that vitamin K2 along with vitamin D3 help in the absorption of calcium. The K2 helps the calcium get into the bone and not calcify in the arteries and other tissues. Without K2 future cardiovascular episodes may occur.
It also improved bone density tests.
K2 & D are best absorbed with meals that contains some fat.
Take care,
Jake
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1 ReactionI had a difficult reaction to Forteo and my doc didn't want me on Prolia or Reclast (long story) so I didn't meds for quite a few years. All I can tell you is that you never know when you will fracture, and when I did, it was three vertebrae at once. Added to 3 traumatic fractures a long time ago, I now have 6. The pain of this is very motivating, believe me. I am finding Tymlos much easier than Forteo, and started at a low dose then moved up slowly. Evenity is another possibility but newer. Side effects from Tymlos, if they occur, tend to fade. I think a -3.2 could be the start of more fragility, but your MD would know.
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4 ReactionsI recently completed the two year course of Forteo. Had increase in bone density of 12.8% in spine and 5% in hip. I took the shots at night and had no side effects whatsoever. I’m on Reclast now. Did the infusion and all went well with no reaction or side effects.
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3 ReactionsHi @barbiep and welcome, I am on Tymlos but this is my second try. Had to stop for a month due to side effects and then I started back at a low dose and I am working my way back to a full dose. Right now I am over half dose with no side effects. Maybe I will get to finish my two years. Hope you find a med that works for you. KLH
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2 ReactionsI am in my 3rd month of Forteo. I did not have bone density issues (DXA Scan was OK) but due to fracture issues (14+) over my life I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. There were some small side effects when I first started Forteo. A bit of bone pain. With the exception of one time, it is always 1 small location and random. The pain was on about a 3 scale and lasts for a couple hours. If I had to make a choice today I would choose Forteo again. I like it in particular because I don't have to worry about how many clicks to use.
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1 ReactionI’m grateful for everyone who has shared their thoughts so far! I will look into Vitamin K and will try to remain open minded about the drugs. Yesterday I had spinal X-rays to see if there has been any damage thus far - thankfully there hasn’t been. I guess stress has been causing my back pain. I think my doc agreed to order the tests because she dropped the ball by never counseling about osteopenia or having a DEXA redone even though I had advanced osteopenia back in 2012. I’m awaiting an appointment with endocrinologist but it seems there is a long wait. Meanwhile, while researching the anabolic drugs it seems they are intended for people who have had fractures or haven’t had success with bisphosphonates. Has anyone had a doc prescribe them as an initial therapy? Does it involve a battle with insurance? I start Medicare in Jan. and will be looking for an osteoporosis friendly plan!!
Also, does anyone have good links to exercises for osteoporosis in spine?
Thank-you and best wishes for all!
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1 ReactionHi, @barbiep Welcome to Connect.
I have been on Tymlos since March. Initially I had some slight light-headedness the following morning (I take it before bed at night) but that has passed. The only other side-effect that I can definitely say is from Tymlos is what people refer to as "puffy belly" which is actually fluid retention. It's a nuisance but I can live with that.
Some people start out with a lower dose but my endocrinologist said to start out with the full dose. Then if you do have a problem you can go to a lower dose and build up.
The only downside I see to Tymlos is the cost. I am on Medicare and so there is no assistance. Many people who are not on Medicare are able to get it at a greatly reduced cost and some even get it free!
This is the first drug I have been on for osteoporosis. I had a minor hip fracture in July 2019 which led to a DEXA. I had not had a DEXA for five years and my previous one showed osteopenia so I believe I should have. If you have a fracture that can make a difference in whether these expensive injectables are approved by your insurance or Medicare, even without having had another drug first.
JK
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2 ReactionsHi JK!
Thanks for your comments! I am still trying to get in to see the endocrinologist my GYN referred me to, but have been wondering about all the folks who mention taking a reduced dose to start. Good to get your docs’ perspective as well!
I’m set to start Medicare in Jan. so will be looking for best drug plan possible. I also get very sad when I think I wouldn’t be at a -3.2 spine if my doc didn’t wait for 9 years for a repeat DEXA following my -2.1 test. She says now she was “following guidelines”, waiting till I was 65…
I hope you continue to do well with Tymlos!! If given the option I think that will be my choice at this point.
Take care!
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3 Reactions@barbiep I was in pretty much the same position since I had osteopenia in January 2014 but never had another DEXA unit I fractured in 2019 and I suggested it. Plus, I was on prednisone which is a known problem for bones.
I confronted the doctor and he gave three flimsy excuses. I really had a good rapport with him but I just cannot risk my health if he lets things fall through the cracks like that so I have since changed PCPs. I actually miss him!
JK
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3 Reactions@barbie60 I'm a few months shy of age 90, on prednisone since January for Giant Cell Arteritis, fortunately tapered down to 4 mg. A year ago my DEXA scan iowest T score was for my right hip, at 3.2, Z score was - 0.6. Now, of course I don't know how much my GCA treatment with prednisone has affected my bones. I had one injection of Prolia when my GCA was diagnosed . Now my doctor (Internal Medicine) suggests I consider other osteoporosis drugs and he set up an appointment with an endocrinologist. So I am especially interested in this discussion.
In the past I have taken several drugs such as Fosomax and Evista. besides Prolia, and also had intervals without any osteoporosis drug. My only fracture has been a fall on ice that resulted in a broken ankle 50 years ago. I am especially interested in the experience of very elderly women. Do they experience more serious side effects?
I have been eating milk products - yogurt, whole milk, cheese - to replace some of my calcium requirements since I like them and they agree with me. My doctor suggests I eat other calcium rich food instead . Do other people find that dropping milk benefits them?
Thanks Barbie60 and the others who have posted information.
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