Thanks. I have low bone density in my hips and my gyn prescribed ibandronate, another bisphosphonate, 3 years, probably because it is easy to take once a month. I did take the first dose and had nasty muscle pain for two weeks. The article you referenced indicates that it is not the medication of choice for the hips. Many opinions out there. My primary an internist, did not think a second opinion was warranted so I have resorted to Citrical and being more vigilant on my calcium intake. Also, I have switched to a different primary who might be more open minded about a second opinion.