I have been on Fosamax twice over a five year period. The first time I stayed on it for a bit over three years and leg cramps and sore stomach issues made me decide to take a break from it. My numbers did improve slightly while I was on it. The second time I took Fosamax for only about six months as leg cramps at night were excruciating and extended into my groin area. I made the decision to stop taking it, and haven't taken any osteoporosis drugs for seven years. My last bone density numbers had not changed, despite not taking drugs for seven years. Until safer drugs and without side-effects are put on the market, I've chosen to not take prescription meds for osteoporosis.

I'm 79 Nx have been taking Tymlos since January. Some nausea and loss of appetite in the beginning, but much better now. Forteo and Tymlos are the only 2 meds in the U.S that build bone, but they are expensive.

The T-score test ranges from -1 to -2.5 for osteopenia diagnosis. I'd start off by finding out if my results were closer to normal or on the higher end before making any decision about taking the medication your doctor recommended, or any perscription medication at all. When we're 74, we are at "elevated risk" for lots of things. I'd start with making sure I was eating a proper diet for bone health and then investigate any available natural supplements that might improve your bone density.