Depression and Tymlos
I'm wondering if others have experienced an onset of depression after being on Tymlos. I'm in my 9th month and have recently found myself having thoughts and feelings of hopelessness that seem to come and go without my bringing them on. Mostly overnight, and they can ruin an otherwise good night's sleep. Occasional intrusive thoughts that being dead would be better - no! I'm not suicidal - and other DSM symptoms of a depressive episode. Since I've never had any of this before I have to think it's associated with the Tymlos. Also, it coincides with significant weight loss over the past month - from 151 to 143 - which is a side effect that's reported often enough that I accept it being from the Tymlos. Depression is rarely mentioned as one, but still.... So I'm wondering what others have experienced in the real world of Tymlos, outside the drug company literature. I'm seeing my osteo doc in a couple days to see what he says, but like many readers on this chat, I'm not expecting him to have much experience with these symptoms. Thx
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A thought. From time to time I will send a message through patient Portal telling her what I want to discuss at our visit. Time for her to prep/consult with colleague. Have you considered getting an osteoporosis specialist on board for treatment of Osteoporosis?
That's who prescribes the Tymlos and who I'm going to be seeing. I know he's been prescribing Tymlos for a while; whenever I asked about specific side effects (as I was starting on it) he'd say "I haven't had anyone report that..." Kind of the same that I'd expect from the Tymlos rep, who would, I fear, quote the research literature and refer me to my doc. So I'm not optimistic about learning anything useful from him; I get more good info from this group than from the professionals 🙏
Depression is a kind of suffering that is also physical. I want to mention that when I have been through depressive times in my life, both times I lost 30 lbs. without changing the way I ate. The medication may affect your mood health, and could be the reason for weight loss. I'm glad you shared what you're going through. I'm just making decisions about a new diagnosis of osteoporosis. I'm grateful to everyone that shares their experience!
I have experienced some of what you are describing but for me I feel it’s bc of the fractures I’ve had, how they have changed my body and my self image. Unlike you though I have experienced some weight gain, not loss, especially in my abdominal area which has always been one of my smaller areas previously. I know that is partially due to how vertebral fractures compress towards the front and your spine now wants to go that way, but I have read other’s comments about weight gain with Tymlos. Just dealing with all the levels of osteoporosis and having to inject oneself everyday is depressing. Your feelings are understandable and you are not alone!
I read your post early this morning and have been thinking of you all day.
Do you feel like the Tymlos causes depression itself or the consequences of osteoporosis?
I do totally understand depression, but not obsessing over it.
I have always taken care of my clothes, hair, appearance and loathe people who wear pajamas and slippers to the store like they just rolled out of bed. Im by no means a fashionista, but try to be presentable.
So, with a hunched back, a short neck, a muffin top and all body parts about hitting the floor, yes, it is depressing. I dont want to shop for clothes now because nothing fits right. I wouldnt get caught in a bathing suit, shorts or a crop top. When i get out of the shower and look in the mirror, I sometimes cry and do say Id rather be dead. But those thoughts are short lived. Im very thankful. My six fractures could have been much worse.
My husband still loves me and says I look nice. Our boys come home often. We do things together, they help with things I cant do anymore. We have the most wonderful nieces and nephews, good friends an neighbors. Life is good.
Yeah....my body isnt 20 anymore, but it still works. I still walk 5 miles in the park everyday, I play with the dog, cook, clean, etc. Im the same person, just 3 inches shorter and readjusted here and there.
We all have our moments of feeling down. I could be wrong....but I dont think its the Tymlos itself but what osteoporosis does to us and how frustrating it is. Focus on all the good things in your life, and there are so many. Spend time doing what you enjoy and surround yourself with people you love. Do something kind for someone. Dont let osteoporosis get you down. Stay on this forum. We all understand. Together, we can help each other.
You take care. You are a beautiful person!