bone density

[mogs231]

Hi my gp recently sent me for a bone density scan and she wants to put me on alendronic acid meds to help with weakness of my bones the result was in the red... what is this? will it affect me because of the other meds i am on for oesteo and rheumatoid arthritis...getting so fed up with all this!! xx

[oldtimer]

Osteoporosis is common in people with RD. If by 'being in the red' he means that you have severe loss of bone, then it would be sensible to do something about that. Have a look at the UK osteoporosis society website at the range of treatments available so that you can see for yourself what is available and the pros and cons of each type of treatment. Alendronic acid is a commonly used treatment but does, of course, have some disadvantages and my dentist is not at all keen on it except short term.

And look at your diet and exercise regime to see if you can improve your bone health that way too.

[thelmar]

Hi - Alendronic Acid is given to treat or to prevent osteoporosis. It is quite normal to be given it alongside RD drugs as osteoporosis is more likely in people with RD. It will help to prevent bone fractures. Unfortunately I had already fractured a vertebrae which led to them prescribing Alendronic Acid. I also take Adcal (calcium and vitamin d). Hopefully the timing will be better for you and you will be taking it before any damage is done.

[freesthomas]

Hello... I’ve been taking alendronic acid tablets for years. Mine is once a week and I tend to take it first thing in the morning with a full glass of water, on an empty stomach. You can then eat something after half an hour. I think, from memory, they were described to me as stopping the bone breaking down so quickly. One thing to bear in mind is if you need any dentist Work carried out, it’s best to visit the dentist first before starting on the alendronic acid. Speak to your dentist first, just to make sure. I hope this info helps a bit. I also take Calfovit which is a calcium and vitamin D supplement (prescribed by GP).

[Kalimers65 in reply to freesthomas]

How long have you been on it? A friend said her G P said 10 years max. My GPs had cheerfully been doing my repeat prescription for 15 years. When i mentioned what my friend had said a GP looked rather shocked and embarassed and immediately took me off. Re dental work I was told the problem was bleeding in that it could be a problem stopping. I was going to have an implant and the dentist said wait a year or two to let my body recover from this med.

[freesthomas in reply to Kalimers65]

Hello.... I’ve been on it for around 15 years. There seem to be different schools of thought whether to stay on it or come off it. As I’m now classed as having Osteoporosis as well as JIA, the rheumatology consultant has advised staying on it. Maybe it depends on bone density scan results and the consultant’s opinion on the medication too!

[carol555]

Hi, I have also been prescribed this too and it's in the cupboard but as I am on steroids I have to wait til I'm off these before I can take it - currently on 5mg - so please check your meds first. Looking at other posts I think I will check with my dentist first too. Good luck. Carol

[Macelott2]

Alendronic acid,horrible stuff.

My husband and I have zolendronate infusion once a year so much easier, but still be aware of any dental issues.

[sweetsusie]

These meds. can cause your jaw to break if you have teeth pulled or other invasive dentristry needed. I tried taking a couple of them, and it was a nightmare. I ended up not being about to swallow, so my doctor took me off of them. I am now on HRT, which will help build back my bones more naturally. These meds. do not build back STRONG bones...they build back weak bones from everything I've heard and read. Just my humble opinion...