Bioidentical Hormones for Osteoporosis

Posted by me49 @me49, Mar 26, 2023

I was looking at Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT) to help with osteoporosis. Has anyone tried this approach. I was on Actonel for 10 years and recently tried Evenity for 6 months, but stopped because of side effects. I was put on weekly Fosamax but that caused daily migraines. I generally am sensitive to medications, but I am running out of options. Thanks for any responses.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.

Jennifer, Volunteer Mentor | @jenniferhunter | Mar 26, 2023

@me49 I am taking compounded bioidentical hormone replacement. The estrogen needs to be balanced against progesterone. My doctor also ads some testosterone into the mix. I don't have osteoporosis, but my doctor wants to prevent that as well as treat the hot flashes.

This discussion may be helpful where you can meet other members on this subject.

--Women's Health -- "Advice on using HRT please: What are the pros & cons?"
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/advice-on-using-hrt-please/
This may be helpful too.

-- Osteoporosis and Bone Health -- "What helps improve osteoporosis without medication?"
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/healing-osteoporosis-without-medication/

me49 | @me49 | Mar 27, 2023

In reply to @jenniferhunter "@me49 I am taking compounded bioidentical hormone replacement. The estrogen needs to be balanced against progesterone...." + (show)

Thanks so much for the links. I'm 74 and osteo meds have had too many side effects that I feel are unsafe. It sounds as if you have a wonderful doctor ❤️.

teb | @teb | Mar 27, 2023

I was on Forteo for 2 years and needed to follow it with something to maintain the slight gain in bone density. I was 63 at the time and about 10 years out of menopause. After evaluating risks/benefits of all the medications, I decided that BHRT was the most natural and best option for me and am on the lowest transdermal dose. I've been using them for 3 years and it seems I'm somewhat maintaining my density. It might be challenging to find an MD who would prescribe at 74 but possibly an ND or functional MD would consider it.

me49 | @me49 | Mar 27, 2023

Thanks for the info. I am atill looking. I found an on line company for a patch ' but I'd rather have the input of an MD or ND that would monitor my levels.

candy209 | @candy209 | Mar 27, 2023

I used them years ago for a very short time and they worked. I am 64 and they say it’s not safe because of the amount of time that’s passed since menopause but I feel like I would like to try it for a short time to boost my bones. I just feel like it would build healthy bone because it’s what our bodies built them with when we were younger.

lbmorgan44 | @lbmorgan44 | Mar 28, 2023

I was on Evenity for a year and my bone density moved from osteoporosis back into osteopenia. I don't tolerate bisphosphonates and won't take Prolia. I also am very sensitive to medication.

I began Evista as I was going off Evenity. Evista is not considered to be a first-line treatment for osteoporosis. I felt this was my best choice for me after Evenity. I also follow all the dietary, exercise and supplement guidelines.

Evista is a selective estrogen-receptor modulator (SERM). I have been on it for 6 months and have hot flashes as the only side effect. I won't know until my next DEXA scan if it will slow or stop bone loss. It is not for everyone and I am not recommending it. We all have to choose our own path through this.

I would like to hear from any others who have been on Evista for osteoporosis.