I have just been diagnosed with Anklyosing Spondylosis. I have a normal bone density, serum calcium and magnesium are normal, hip xrays are normal, no indication of osteoporosis. But my Rheumatologist is wanting me to go on Forteo.
After reading about this drug, I have many concerns about taking it. No where do I see any information about taking it for my condition when all the other indicators are normal. Does anyone have any infomation that may help me make this decision?
Re: Forteo for treatment of Anklyosing Spondylosis
tlsix6,
I don't blame you for not wanting to use Forteo if you don't have osteoporosis. I have not heard it used off label for any conditions. I've never seen it listed as a treatment for arthritis type conditions either. I don't even think insurance companies would approve it if you don't have osteoporosis. Did your doctor say why she wanted you to be treated with Forteo? I would ask. I'd be interested to hear what the doctor's reason is.
Re: Forteo for treatment of Anklyosing Spondylosis
At first the Rheumatologist said there was nothing they could do for my condition except refer me to a pain management specialist. Then they said that maybe we could try the Forteo and encouraged me to attend a class to learn about the drug. They also said that the insurance company wouldn't pay for it unless we tried some of the less expensive drugs first so they wanted me to take Fosamax for 3 months so that we could then say it wasn't effective and then the insurance would pay for the Forteo!! Doesn't sound like very good advice to me! As of this time, I've decided not to follow the advice and not to go back to that doctor!!
Re: Forteo for treatment of Anklyosing Spondylosis
Going to a different doctor sounds like a good idea. Yes, insurance usually wants patients to try the oral medication first. Let us know what your new doctor recommends.
