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Macular Degeneration and Osteoporsis Medication: possible link?

Posted by sut @sut, Jul 21, 2020

I have Wet Age Related Macular Degeneration. My GP wants me to go back on Osteoporosis Medication. My research found studies done on a possible link between Biosulphates(Alendronate, Fossamax, etc.) and increase in Macular Degeneration. I researched because even though this condition (Macular Degen.) runs in my family, my left eye that had remained dry suddently turned and this happened about the same time frame of beginning Alendronate. My right eye had turned wet about 4 years prior. I receive injections in each. Right has remained stable so far but left has deterioated to where detail is impossible with that eye. I don't want to chance doing more harm, especially to my one good eye. Has anyone experienced this or had any discussion with their Dr. regarding Ostoporosis Med. and the effect on Macular Degeneration? Thank you.

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marelena | @marelena | Feb 6, 2023

I am presently going through this and have been doing research. I have macular dystrophy and dry macular disease. My decision is to not take any of these drugs as they all can affect the eyes. Yes, the number of affected are low. Because I had a central retinal vein occlusion 4 days after cataract surgery (the chances of that were low too), I have decided not to take the chance of doing harm to my good eye.

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marelena | @marelena | Feb 6, 2023
In reply to @sue225 "@sut would you consider asking your doctor about another osteoporosis medication? (e.g. Prolia, which I take)." + (show)
@sue225

@sut would you consider asking your doctor about another osteoporosis medication? (e.g. Prolia, which I take).

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From what I am seeing, there are issues with the eye with all of them.

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marelena | @marelena | Feb 6, 2023
In reply to @sut "No decision yet. I find it difficult to comprehend all the facts in the studies. There..." + (show)
@sut

No decision yet. I find it difficult to comprehend all the facts in the studies. There are so many variables. When I saw there were studies on Ostoporosis Med. and people with AMD, I felt I needed to research more before going back on the Osteoporosis Med. Especially since Dr. recommends me taking twice the dosage as before. My bone scan in June showed a slight improvement taking diagnosis back to Osteopenia stage. I was on for two years and ask to be taken off due to a lot of problems with acid reflux. I had been on Actonel many years ago for about 6-8 years but Dr. agreed then I should go off it. I take calcium and V-D daily. When I went on Alendronate 2 years ago it conincidently was when my AMD went from Dry to Wet in left eye and now that eye is really bad. I received Eyelea injections in it every 4 weeks and Avastin in right eye every 8 weeks. If my right eye worsens, it will severly affect anything I can still do requiring some sight. Since I am active, exercise, eat pretty good, I am thinking I will not go back on Alendronate until I can judge better how my AMD is. I am just to skeptical. I do not want to influence anyone as all situations are different. This is just my particular situation.

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Like you I have decided not to go on this drug. Too many variables and to risky when I have one good eye.

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onefisher | @onefisher | Jul 15 3:11pm

I started Bonita a few years ago, and developed wet Macular Degeneration at about that time. Even though MD runs in my family (Mother), it seemed like a coincidence that the onset occurred about that time. I stopped taking the drug and have not taken anything since, although my doctor suggests Prolix as an alternative. Osteopenia in my hips has improved, but the osteoporosis in my spine has worsened, even though I am pursuing an aggressive exercise program.

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