Osteoporosis

[DEN53]

I was diagnosed with this 7 years ago - I have recently had my 3 year Dexa scan which shows it has progressed substantially. I take Osteocare tablets (calcium, boron, magnesium etc).

I have tried Fosamax (one of the Bisphosphonates group) but they made me feel ill. My GP has now prescribed Risedronate (which I think is part of the same group).

I am just wondering if any other abers who perhaps have the same condition, have found any other successful forms of treatment for osteporosis.

[bednobs]

no, but i have had both of the tablets you mention above, and found no difference in taking either. However, it may be that risedronate suits you better

[DEN53]

Hi Bednobs - did you find any side effects with the tablets and how long have you been taking yours ?

[Gowergirl]

Hi DEN
I take Alendronic Acid,which is similar to Fosamax.I've only been on it 4 months,but so far I'm fine.I also take Calcichew tablets[prescribed by my Dr.].& I have increased the amount of Calcium in my diet too.I eat a lot of tinned salmon & have a glass of soya milk every day.
It's obviously too early to know if my bone density is improving,but I've noticed that my previously brittle finger nails are much stronger.
I have found The National Osteoporosis Society's website to be a great source of information.You can E-mail them or phone them
There are lots of us Osteoporosis sufferers out there.You are not alone
All Good Wishes
GowerGirl

[DEN53]

Hiya Gowergirl - I only use Soya Milk - on my porridge and in tea/coffee. I have been using this for around 12 years now.

Did you have any side affects with your tablets i.e. upset stomach on taking them - these Risedronate they have prescribed are to be taken once a week 35mg and you have to stand up for half an hour whilst they go down, otherwise they irritate your gullet - apparently.

I don't tolerate anything that upsets stomachs, so I am a bit apprehensive.

The reason I have osteoporosis is many years of an over active thyroid gland and hysterectomy at the age of 42.

I am now 53.

I am off the the chemist now to collect the prescription and run some errands. Many thanks for your reply.

Den xx

[Gowergirl]

Hi again DEN,
I take the Alendronic acid once a week.The recommendation fron the OPS is to take the tablet first thing in the morning with 2 glasses of water.They describe it as 'whooshing' the tablet down.Stay upright for at least 30 mins.I usually have a shower & get dressed or I potter in the garden,if the weather is good.Don't eat anything for an hour after taking the tablet.This avoids heartburn & stomach problems.The info inside the packet of medication says you can eat ,30 mins after taking the tablet,but many people get problems if they take the tablet too early.
I hope this is of help.I was very apprehensive about starting this medication,so I know exactly how you feel.
Cheers
GG

[bednobs]

i am really concerned with what you are saying- the instructions for the residronate are exactly the same instructions you should have been following for alendronate, and if you didnt, thats prob. where your problem lies

[janbee]

fosamax made me ill too. I now take Adcal (2 a day) and Actonel risedronate (1 a week). I try to do as much walking as possible. Avoid red meats, fizzy drinks (incl fizzy water). I was diagnosed in 1995 and and get a test every year to see if it's up or down and medication is changed accordingly. It's been pretty steady now for quite a few years. Good luck.

[janbee]

Hello again. Don't worry about the "standing up" for 30 minutes. What it really means is don't take it, then go back to bed for half an hour or don't slouch in a chair. I usually take the tablet then go for my shower, get dressed etc and then the half hour has flown by. When I was first prescribed the risedronate, I actually thought I had to STAND UP for half an hour. Not so. As I mentioned previously, I've been taking it for years and I don't even give it a second thought.

[DEN53]

Thanks bednobs - Gowergirl and janbee for all your good advice and information.

I will let you know how I get on.

Den xx

[kakaduka]

Hello, I think that you want to get more info about it. Go to http://asdurben.blogspot.com/?q=Osteoporosis