Experiences with Fosamax
Hello I recently had a Dexa scan because my oncologist wants to change my Tamoxifen to Anastrozole after my hysterectomy . I am 46 years old. Come to find out I have osteoporosis in my spine my T-score was -2.8. Also Osteopenia in my pelvic/hip area. I am in really good health and eat very healthy, take calcium and Vitamin D daily, do weight-bearing exercises 3-4 times a week. My oncologist prescribed Fosamax. I am anxious about starting this medication due to the side effects that are possible. I would love to hear about some of your experiences with Fosamax good or bad. Thank you!
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Hi @rnjen, I have cycled on and off Fosamax as I have gone back and forth between osteoporosis and osteopenia. My endocrinologist prefers it because it is quicker to clear from the system than injectables/infusions if necessary. I have bad teeth so that’s a concern in my case. In general it’s a good idea to get any necessary dental work done before starting a bisphosphonate.
It can be hard on your stomach but I have managed fine with silent GERD, Barrett’s esophagus and a history of upper GI bleeding. I wait two rather than the recommended one hour before eating in the morning on the weekly pill day and drink plenty of water. I am also on a PPI for life. My endo does urinary NTx tests to make sure it is working effectively.
Keep up the healthy diet and exercise since it does help. Right now I’m in the third year of a Fosamax “holiday” but given the results of my last DEXA I’ll probably be back on it next February. It’s just anecdotal but I am from a family with a history of osteoporosis and the only one of 5 sibs who hasn’t had multiple fractures. The others all went with the more expensive modern drugs.
I hope you do well with this med.
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