What would you do? - Osteoporosis Message Board

craziestlady · 12-04-2008, 09:53 AM

I am post menopausal and just had a bone density test. My doctor told me I was at risk for fractures and therefore wanted to put me on Fosomax. I am highly sensitive to drugs and after reading online the problems people were having with the side effects, I am scared to death to even try it because of being so sensitive to drugs. An example of just how sensitive I am is, I have epilepsy and doctors had to take me off of all medications for this because the side effects were worse than my seizures and this is just one example. I have tried so many medications in the past and then had to quit or reduce the dosage because of the side effects being so bad. Another example is, I can only take two pills a week of my anti-depressant. If I take any more, I am walking around like a "zombie" and feel so drugged up. I have been taking Citracal +D for several years but apparently it isn't enough. Does anyone have any suggestions of a supplement or vitamin that I can take that will help in place of the Fosomax? Thanks for your time.

phylwill1152 · 12-04-2008, 04:18 PM

Hi crazyiestlady...there are several of us here who are taking strontium citrate to help our bones. Its a natural substance that has been shown to be effective in both building new bone and reducing fractures. It can be purchased online and at some stores. I've been taking it for over 2 years with no side effects except improved density. Many mainstream drs. aren't familiar with it and if they are they are hesitant to recommend it since its not FDA approved yet. You can do your own research and see if its something you think would agree with your body chemistry. There a several threads here about strontium..if you go to the search box at the top of the page and type in strontium you'll get plenty to read.

You might want to up your vitamin D intake and add magnesium, vitamin K, fish oil and other bone building vitamin and minerals. Are you doing weight bearing exercises and weight training? They are both helpful in building bone density. there is a good book called the Myth of Osteoprosis by Gillian Sanson...its loaded with good info and will help you understand it and alleviate some of your fears. It was very helpful to me when first dx.

There are a lot of smart people here who will be more than happy to help so if you have questions please ask. Take care...phyllis

starfish81 · 12-04-2008, 06:00 PM

Hey crazylady, welcome to the boards! Phylwill has given you excellent advice; I couldn't have said it any better. Definitely read "The Myth of Osteoporosis"....I bought 3 copies: 1 as a gift, one for me, and one that I lend out to others in the same boat. That's how valuable I think it is!
In adition to the strontium you might also consider vitamin K7. There are at least 2 of us on these boards that are taking it; it's available on-line as is the strontium.

taape · 12-04-2008, 06:29 PM

I was told the same thing when diagnosed. But I did get a prescription for Fosamax, took one pill and my stomach was instantly on fire. Needless to say, I stopped taking it after that. Then pursued other treatments and was prescribed Forteo which I used for 2 years. I had a good increase in BMD but was back to the same dilemma after ending the Forteo-what should I take next for treatment.

I still haven't figured it out and have been walking and taking Calcium with Vit D. I'm due to see another doctor soon to look at treatment options. Personally, I wouldn't take the Fosamax, it's really hard on the stomach to begin with, and then supposedly stays in the bones for years on end. Adding some exercise sounds like a good idea also. Let us know what you decide.

Canna · 12-04-2008, 06:50 PM

Hey CLady.. Welcome to the board.. I am taking the strontium citrate without side effects and MK7. My last dexa showed an increase of 6.4% in femoral neck but no change in lumbar just after 10months on strontium. I know strontium weighs more than calcium so I must allow for that too... Plus I did have a fracture(fracture pain sucks) but since taking the strontium have not had another even tho the medical professionals will tell you once you fracture you have a very high percentage of fracturing again within a year(500%). My year is up and I am fracture free but I am working hard at it and trying to do my best. I never miss taking the stronium or Vitamin k along with vit D/calc unless an emergency arises every now and then. Calcium cannot build up density on its own once you have lost it. Strontium adds bone strength and bones become thicker. Good Luck with your decision and keep us posted!!