Taking Fosamax for the 2nd time?

[Agho]

I took a course of Foxamax for about 10 years from 2003 - 2013 without any side effects. Had no meds until 2020 when I had 1 Prolia injection which gave me horrible muscle/joint pain. I'm now in severe osteoporosis with spine at -3.6 and hips just into osteoporosis and my GP has suggested I restart Fosamax. Has anyone here taken a 2nd course of Bisphosphonate after a long gap? I'm worried that I might start getting the nasty side effects associated with long term use.

[Sunseaandsand]

Hi, why would you be worried about long term use and re starting the Fosamax??

If you were taking it for 10 years previously without side effects then surely you shouldn’t have concerns about bad side effects.

Because you have had such a long period of time between treatments perhaps you would be able to have a further discussion with your doctor about the different treatments available.

If you don’t want to continue with Prolia have you thought about Teriparatide, you could then follow on with Zoledronic acid or Fosamax

Perhaps your G P is not aware that for best results the Teriparatide works better if you have not been on Bisphosphonates for some time before starting it x

[Agho in reply to Sunseaandsand]

Thank you for your reply Sunseaandsand.

I'm not worried about side effects as such, I'm worried about the possible atypical femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw which is more likely the longer a bisphosphonate is used.

I guess what I'm really wondering is if my bones have had long enough off the medication for me to be considered as starting afresh, if that makes sense.

[Sunseaandsand in reply to Agho]

Hi Agho, I understand your concerns better now sorry for the misunderstanding.

My thoughts are that a Gap of 10 years without Fosamax would put you back at the starting post.

The side effects you mention are very rare but have been known to happen.

From knowledge gained over the years I have been told that it is usually when high doses of Bisphosphonates are given ( which is often the case for cancer patients)

I think a call with the ROS nurses would be of benefit to you because they are the experts and will be able to give you all the facts and information you need to make the best decision.

Best wishes in your way forward and let us know how you progress x

[Agho in reply to Sunseaandsand]

Thank you Sunseaandsand. A call to the Osteoporosis Society helpline is a good suggestion, will do that.