5 years pred, now osteoporosis,

[Chopin002]

Hello, I have been taking pred for 5 years now. Down to 2 and a half and doing ok, but just received dexascan results. They indicate significant bone loss since 2018. I took a biphosphonate for first seven months, but quit as did not like side effects. Numbers are -3 for spine and -2.5 for neck. I walk an hour daily and eat well. Doctor wants to see me. I don’t think med would help now as pred dose is low now. Damage probably done in 2020 and 2021 when higher dose pred. Any thoughts. ??

[PMRpro Ambassador]

They aren't horrendous - the spine is often lower than the others and -2,5 is borderline. But yes, taking a bisphosphonate of some sort WILL benefit you, it will stop it getting worse and may reverse the low bone density. It depends which drug you are offered.

[Chopin002 in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks for the reply. In this case perhaps the infusion would be best for me.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Chopin002]

Have you asked this organisation for advice -

osteoporosis.ca

[Chopin002 in reply to DorsetLady]

No, I’ll check it out right now. Thanks.

[bonio in reply to Chopin002]

ive been on pred for 2.5 years. First Dexa really great bone density, have always been v active, walker and climber. 2nd Dexa in April this year shows significant changes to hips at -2 and cervical spine at -2.4 which sort of agrees with your assumption that damage is done at the higher start off dose. Dexa notes requested bisphosphonate until down to 2.5mg. I suffer from gastritis so tabs didn't work for me. Had an ibandronate infusion in June and no probs, a bit sick the following morning but recovered by the evening. Infusion simple and took around 40min to 1 hour. Hopefully that will be what is suggested for you and i'd recommend.

[bonio]

ooops infusion was zoledronate not ibandronate and i've spoken a couple of times to Royal Osteoporosis Society, ROS theros.org.uk and they were very helpful

[Chopin002 in reply to bonio]

Thanks. I may have to try that route . I really don’t want any treatment but any further deterioration could be critical.

[bonio]

i was really worried about the infusion but had no need. for me it just wasnt worth risking osteoporosis. Hope all goes well for you.

[Chopin002 in reply to bonio]

Thanks so much . I’m really worried as well, but helps put my mind at ease. If it’s just a day or two feeling sick that will be nothing after what I’ve been through. Appreciate you taking the time to explain.