Actonel: Anyone have input or experiences?

I took Actonel for 10 years before the FDA said that it causes bone problems if taken that long. I started taking it first as a daily tablet, then the weekly, then monthly. I found that with each type I had joint pain that I managed with exercise. I think the monthly bothered my stomach to a point that I developed Barrett's esophagus. Maximum time on this drug has been reduced to 3 to 5 years. All these osteoporosis medications have side effects, but be sure to ask questions of your doctor before you commit to taking one. Best wishes for good health.

Thank you for your input and good health wishes.

DETC. I took Actonel weekly for approximately 8 years before a new doctor said I should be taking a drug holiday after 5 years. ( I stopped in 2013.) I did not have any problems with this drug but did not go back on it as I was focused on other health issues. I did not have another DEXA until May 2021 when I learned that I had a big drop in bone density, as low as -5.2. I am now (still) trying to decide which anabolic to take. It has been a difficult decision. Fortunately, I have not had a bone break despite a major fall, but I worry about it daily.
My best to you for good health.

Kolika,
Thank you for sharing your experience with Actonel. My rheumatologist has made me aware of the drug holiday.
I’m sorry to hear about your health issues and the worsening of your bone density. I’m glad that you didn’t have bone issues with your fall. I understand how scary it is when we have to consider medications that have the potential for serious, adverse side effects vs the risk of not taking medications that can be completely beneficial. I guess we just need to do our own research and reach out to medical professionals and patients who have similar situations and determine what we hope will be the best possible decision. Good luck to you in finding a resolution.

DETC, You're welcome and thank you!

Lower dosage of Actonel/Risedronate possible: My osteoporosis doctor mentioned that there is some research that shows a lower dosage of risedronate (17 mg instead of 35 mg) is equally effective. Has anyone found research or more information about this lower dosage option?

Hi, mrcd--I took half a pill for about a year-- normal reasons: I can't tolerate anything and was scared of full dose... Anyway, it didn't really work. I went on the full dose for about a year, and tolerated it well except for constipation. So, sample size of 1, but that's my story. Perhaps it will help you make a decision.

I have stopped the Actonel because even the full-strength wasn't doing the job. My Dr. wants me to go on Tymlos-- which I find even scarier, (But that's a different thread.)

Has anyone taken Actonel to improve bone density? If so, did it work and did you have any side effects?

@omer, I moved your question about Actonel to this existing discussion:
- Actonel: Anyone have input or experiences? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/actonel-1/

I did this so you can read posts and expereinces of @detc @me49 @kolika @marcd @lnl and connect with them.

I took Actonel for over a year. I had mixed results with it-- some numbers improved; one went the wrong direction. I am now on Tymlos-- one month in.
The only side effect I had with Actonel was constipation-- which, if you've never dealt with it seriously impacts quality of life.