Good news - alendronic acid

[Amber53]

Hi, I thought I would share some good news. Three years ago I was diagnosed with osteoporosis and started on alendronic acid with dome reluctance. After a rough first couple of weeks I got used to the medication. I modified my diet a bit, stsrting tsking Vit D and calcium, increased my BMI from 18.2 to 19.2 as recommended by the doctor, started lifting weights (not that heavy) and continued with my yoga and karate. I had a three year check DEXA scan last month and my bone density has increased by 7% and moved me into the osteopenic range everywhere apart from my lower back which remains osteoporotic (that too still had a 6.5% increase in density).

I am awaiting a medication review to see if I come off the alendronic acid. I wanted to share some hope for others

[Margo]

Changing your diet, lifting weights, yoga and taking Vitamin D would have made the difference and gave you the good result, not the medication. Ditch the medication and stick with your diet /Vit D and training.

[emersee in reply to Margo]

Margo, please refrain from telling any member here to avoid medical treatment. What you mentioned are the basics of good bone health but on their own, do not arrest or even slow down the progression of osteoporosis. May I suggest that unless you are a medical professional on this site, that you stop advising people to swerve good medicine. Kind regards.

[Margo in reply to emersee]

Ooooops!

[Fruitandnutcase in reply to emersee]

Just curious emersee - are you a medical professional you sound very knowledgeable?

[Radars in reply to emersee]

good ,us people who have to have medication after a mild to moderate wedge compression fracture of t12, a lot of people diet and exercising with severe osteoporosis is not enough and need medication along with diet and exercise.

[Jumpey]

I'm delighted for you.

[MnMTwo]

That is good news and thanks for sharing Amber53

It makes a nice change to all the negativity I read about OP drugs.

Onwards and upwards for you.

[Nottinghamryan2]

Thanks for posting this is really encouraging to hear as my medication experience is similar to yours , initially struggled with it but persevered and now no issues. I had previously declined meds and tried exercise , diet and supplements but follow up scan showed further deterioration, it’s great to have positive posts.

Take care x

[Zumbablue]

Thanks for sharing. Great to see good news.

[walk21]

As one who is about to start risedronate, thank you for your encouragement. A big thank you!

[HealthELiving]

Amber, Congratulations. Keep doing what you are doing except, I have read that after 3 years, biophosphates do not assist and a 'vacation' should be taken. I have osteoporosis and have avoided starting on meds to see if exercise, weight lifting, and nutrition can improve the numbers. I will have a REMS again in November. Each of us must choose the path that we believe gives us the best outcome with the least risk.

[MydogBrandy]

so pleased for you. Unfortunately I could not tolerate the tablets, made me feel dreadfully sick. Started having yearly infusions. Had my first last year. Don’t know if there is any improvement. How often do you have a dexa scan?

[emersee]

Amber53, that is fantastic news! This really shows how osteoporosis is best treated by incorporating many areas such as proven medication, necessary vitamins and the appropriate exercises. You have done them all!! Many congratulations and thank you for telling all of us here.

[LynneH-19]

I stopped taking Alendronic acid after 8 weeks, due to problems from it and have been on Strontium R since 2011. It’s a case of us keeping an open mind when first diagnosed and finding what medication agrees with us, as individuals.

Some medical advisers suggest having a break from AA after 4 to 5 years. Your GP will probably discuss this with you at a later date.

Meanwhile, You are doing all the right things to help yourself. Well done!