Prolia then Reclast

@followheart87 I have the same question. I am Asian and small-boned. In spite of osteopenia-level DXA readings for about 3 years, my PCP never prescribed anything beyond Calcium, B12 and D3. This year, my lower spine reading hit 3 and she wants me to go on Prolia. All of the other readings are still in the normal or osteopenia-level, so I am wondering why the sudden dive in at the deep end? Her argument is that stress fractures are very painful, but no one in my family has had a stress fracture. I am in my mid-70s and from what I have read/learned from Mayo videos about Prolia, it cannot be taken long-term and has to be tapered off carefully with Reclast. One patient had experienced the side effect of receding gums but my doctor didn't think that was a problem! But why start Prolia at all?

This is a great question and I am eager for some clarity. My doctor just recommended this because of hesitation with Evenity for the black box warnings I might be at risk for with family heart history and my own insomnia. Right now it all appears to be an endless loop of managing life altering side effects. Frustrating to say the least.

I’ve been on Prolia for two years. My rheumatologist never told me it was a drug I would not be able to stop unless I transitioned to another similar drug. So here we are. I share the frustration with hundreds of women out there. It’s my understanding that Prolia builds bone and Reclast maintains the bone. But I could be wrong. I believe the plan for me is to stay on Prolia for several years and then transition to a medication that maintains the bone. Right now I feel like I am walking a tightrope without a net. This is because I had an extraction and implant that needs to heal for at least 3 to 4 months and my oral surgeon and my rheumatologist have differing opinions as to when I should start back on the Prolia.

I am on my last few months of Evenity and I am so stressed over Prolia and Reclast. So many side effects and your right...I dont feel like the doctors tell everything. I read Prolia can cause major jaw issues and Reclast esophagus issues.

@lioness2001 Responding to "It’s my understanding that Prolia builds bone and Reclast maintains the bone." Not quite. Check the Prolia website page on how Prolia works.
Denosumab will "stop the development of bone-removing cells" which is why when we go off it, there is a rush of bone-removing cell growth and we risk stress fracture. I check their website frequently and there are always new warnings. I don't think there are definitive answers yet.