New to the group

[Upbeatme]

I have been taking prednisolone for PMR for nearly 4 weeks and have my first review this week - I'm feeling fab since starting on pred - not taking any supplements yet - should I be asking about calcium and vitamin D at my review appointment?

[SheffieldJane]

Certainly, if you are not automatically prescribed it. Are you on a bone protection medication, such as Alendronic Acid? You need to have a bone density scan to see if this drug is necessary ( DEXA).

[Upbeatme in reply to SheffieldJane]

Not taking anything like that - I'm on other meds for hypertension and iron deficiency

[SheffieldJane in reply to Upbeatme]

If your doctor wants to prescribe it, it is advisable to ask for a DEXA Scan first. Most of us are offered it. It is a serious drug with potentially significant side effects. Let us know how the review goes.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi and welcome,

Good to hear you are feeling well on Pred, SJ has replied re Calcium/VitD - but you might like to have a read through this post for some more info etc -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Yes, you need calcium and vit D supplements - and with luck that is all you need but you will probably need to ask for a dexascan to get out of alendronic acid!

[AineB2020]

Hi I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in 2015 and I am on Denosumab injections every 6 months. I also take Adcal and Vit D supplement 800 iu daily. I am hoping that this will protect me from fractures. If you are not on calcium or Vit D then I would ask.