Alendronic acid and raised Potassium levels

[Ukalady]

Hi I have been on Alendronic acid for 4 mths now. I have - 3 lumbar spinal osteoporosis but also have chronic kidney deficiency. My past two blood tests are showing raised 5.7 mmols/l and I’m wondering if it’s linked to my Alendronic acid?

[t1gernidster]

I really think this is one for a health professional, most likely your renal consultant. The trouble is as often as not you will be fobbed off. Personally I wouldn’t take any osteoporosis medication at all despite having been assured by at least three medics that it would be safe for my stomach post MALT lymphoma. I dread to think of the outcome had I agreed to take it, it would have been catastrophic I’m sure. Sadly the best thing I can suggest is that you do your own investigation as far as you possibly can. Good luck.

[hjskev]

I stopped taking Alendronic acid because of stomach problems ie acid reflux. Now I take Gaviscon to deal with that and I've been warned its very high in potassium . I was also prescribed Omeprazole which is bad for bones, but that actually makes my stomach worse. Its all a bit like the old lady who swallowed a fly.

[Cappuccinobaby]

Please go and get hyperparathyroidism ruled out. Calcium vit d magnesium and pth need testing from the same blood draw. Known to cause kidney problems and osteoporosis if left untreated and no amount of alendronic acid will help.....

[jozef123]

yes. Sorry I m not much help, I was on it at first but came off as my cousin had cancer of oesophagi. I already had three spinal fractures and I now have 16 which includes pelvis. All have cement in. Also have 2 new hips. The only thing I would say is I be now taken multiple drugs, injections and infusions. All too late, this is since 2008. I have taken omeprazole all this time and nobody informed me of the risks. I m currently trying to switch it with Gp. Stable door and horse bolted springs to mind. Yes I would go and get more medical advice. Good luck x

[Deb967 in reply to jozef123]

May I ask what Omeprazole did? I am on it for many yrs.

[jozef123]

well I don’t know if it caused more fractures or not but it could have done and I was unaware

[ROSModerator Partner]

Hi Ukalady , Thanks for your question here. If you don’t find answers on here or on our website theros.org.uk/, we recommend you discuss your own situation with a health care professional or contact our specialist nurses on 0808 800 0035(UK). Best wishes, ROS Moderator

[SimMartin]

I’d get a retest first as potassium is susceptible to being high if the blood sample is slightly damaging the cells when drawn or how long stored before being tested - happened to me a couple of times

[Ukalady in reply to SimMartin]

Yes they did retest after 2 weeks and it remained high.