Posted by ed_uk2010 on December 15, 2013, at 16:47:11
In reply to Re: Nightmares + Meds are they Connected? » ed_uk2010, posted by Phillipa on December 4, 2013, at 20:46:58
>Ed you remembered and it did help. As far as the osteo meds go the dentists advise against them here as well as a lot of docs. Seems quite a few lawsuits now due to the build up of osteoclasts which as you know is dead bone. It appears on a dexa scan as thicker bone but it's causing spontaneous thigh fractures. Law suits on this. Also ONJ is high on the dentists lists. Most will not work on your mouth if you take Fosamax, Boniva, etc. I hear that the strontium in your country is working well for osteoporosis. But they type you have isn't available here. Reclast the IV one has caused some deaths many. Google Osteoporosis site & Team Inspire and join and read all the experiences of others on there. I could sent you a copy but no longer can? PJ
Strontium is effective but is associated with a risk of DVT and cardiovascular events. Overall, bisphosphonates remain a sensible first line choice for severe osteoporosis unless you have contraindications such as dental problems, esophageal disorders etc.
Adverse effects such as pathological fractures, as you mentioned, seem particularly associated with very prolonged use ie. many years. Overall, the risk of fractures is clearly reduced by bisphosphonates, which must be a good thing. If you are concerned about long-term issues (spontaneous fractures), avoid taking a bisphosphonate for more than 5 years.
If I was at risk of fracture due to osteoporosis, I would choose a bisphosphonate unless it was contraindicated. I would treat for 5 years and then reconsider. Of course, there are lots of lawsuits in the US for pretty much all widely used meds! ...and plenty of people with horror stories.
Alendronic acid (Fosamax) 70mg once a week or risedronate (Actonel) 35mg once a week are first line. Injections are only suitable in special circumstances. Bonviva isn't much used over here. It's difficult to remember to take something when it's only once a month plus it's considerably more expensive.
poster:ed_uk2010
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URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20131209/msgs/1056252.html