Alendronic Acid 70 mg tablets.

[Jampad]

Does anyone have any thoughts on Alendronic Acid tablets? My rheumatologist wants me to take it, but for some reason, I just have a really strong aversion to taking it. I keep looking at it but can`t bring myself to take it.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

First question should be - do you actually need them?

Have you been offered, or asked for a DEXA scan to find out the state of your bone strength. That’s your start point - unless you already know you have osteoporosis.

Most people find that VitD/Calcium supplements plus a few weight bearing exercises are enough.

I took them for 4 years (with reason) - no problems whatsoever - but they don’t suit everyone - and why take something you don’t need.

I had a DEXA scan a few weeks ago - after being off them and Pred for 3 years - result - normal! My GP was hinting I might need to go back on AA - I have my answer - no I don’t!

[Jampad in reply to DorsetLady]

I just had blood test which showed my bones are normal. I didn`t know about a Dexca scan but will ask the GP. I am taking the calcium and vit. d meds the doctor gave me and I am doing my best to get as much exercise as possible. I would much rather try a healthy diet, supplements and exercise to keep my bones strong.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Jampad]

The blood test does NOT show if bones are normal density, only a dexascan does that. The bone marker panel is only of any real use AFTER the dexascan shows abnormalities:

labtestsonline.org/tests/bone-markers

[Jampad in reply to DorsetLady]

I`m going to ask my GP for a dexa scan.

[SnazzyD]

Have you had a DEXA scan? I refused to even consider taking it until I had had one to see if I really needed it. I didn’t and many others here have done the same thing.

[Jampad in reply to SnazzyD]

Thanks SnazzyD. I am going to ask my GP about a dexa scan.

[Marijo1951]

I feel just like you, although I did take it twice and it gave me the most appalling oesophagal pain. Having subsequently read the side effects and the very dubious nature of its benefits, I've sworn off taking it. I fell a couple of months ago and, although I did get a nasty flash wound in my leg, I didn't break a bone, even in my left arm which took the brunt of the fall, despite the fact that I officially have osteoporosis and refuse the offered medication.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Have you had a dexascan? Do you need AA at this point? Once you know the state of your bones you can discuss it then. In over 7 years on pred my bone density barely changed - it isn;t an invitable part of taking pred.

No dexascan, no AA...

[Louisepenygraig]

Definitely have a dexascan. I started on Prednisolone in April 2017 but didn't have a scan until January this year. I do have osteoporosis now. I had an appointment at the bone clinic yesterday when I was told my bones were quite bad for my age. Because I didn't have a scan initially I 've no idea if this was due to the pred or not. I have been taking alendronic acid, with no problems, since my scan but am being switched to an annual infusion instead

[Jampad]

Thanks Louise. I`m going to ask my GP to refer me for a scan.