@julie2020 I am 65 and also small-boned and slim and 5'2 (I used to be 5'3!). I am also a celiac and was diagnosed in my early 20's. I had osteopenia in my 40's and osteoporosis in my 50's. I have a history of a lot of cancer in my family (sister/breast cancer, mother/breast cancer and non-Hodgkins lymphoma, brother/leukemia). I refused all medication for osteoporosis until the age of 63 when I could no longer ignore the fact that my numbers were continuing to drop although my numbers for hip and spine were in the -3's.
Two years ago my endocrinologist's recommendation was to go on Forteo followed by Prolia. I refused the Forteo because that black box warning about bone cancer frightened me . Also, I have an arrythmia and reading the Forteo info, it mentions palpitations or a racing heart upon injection.
I went with Prolia. I have had three injections. My last bone density showed significant improvement in both the hip and spine. I am due for my fourth injection within the next few weeks. I believe the Prolia has made my irritable bowel worse and has caused worsening constipation issues leading to chronic use of laxatives. Also, after my third injection, I experienced weird chest discomfort and rib cage pressure. I saw my cardiologist and did a stress test (ruled out anything cardiac). I believe it was a reaction to the injection as it started about three to four days after.
I saw my endocrinologist in February/March to discuss stopping Prolia. Now, with Prolia there's no stopping. Once you stop you risk spontaneous vertebral fractures unless you take what is referred to as a relay drug which in my case would be Reclast. I also have upper g.i. issues so oral bisphosphonates like actonel are contraindicated. Because I am small, my doctor said I could probably go for 18 months before having another injection.
I just dont like the fact that Reclast is in your system for 18 months. So, its come down to better to stay with the devil I know? Reclast has a list of unappealing side effects. I fleetingly thought about the doing nothing option but that is too much of a risk.
It would be interesting to hear what your doctor has to say about Prolia.
The problem is that a hip fracture is a scary thought. The other problem is that the drug companies have to come up with better medications.
I will be speaking to my endocrinologist soon to finalize the next step (prolia again or Reclast).
Good luck. You have to be prepared to take a leap of faith.