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RE: What drug would you advise?

Helpline — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:42:01 GMT

Dear lindaweatherby

Thank you for your forum post.
I can understand your concerns about taking the bisphosphonate alendronic acid, alendronate (Fosamax) and in particular worries you have about experiencing nausea, which has occurred when taking other medications in the past. Research from trials shows weekly alendronic acid might cause nausea in 1.9% of people. As individual reactions to medications are difficult to predict, without trying this treatment it is unknown how it might affect you.

Carefully following the instructions about taking the tablets will minimise the risk of developing symptoms suggestive of oesophageal irritation. If on trying the treatment you experience any new or worsening heartburn then it would be important to discontinue the tablets and see your doctor to discuss possible alternative osteoporosis medications. Clicking here will take you to the charity’s “Drug treatments” leaflet which has details of all the current osteoporosis treatments.

Alendronic acid will reduce risk of fracture within 6 months to a year however measurable changes in the bone, which alters slowly, can take some years to be detected by bone density scans (although repeat scans are not always necessary). Recent guidelines from a regulatory body in the UK have suggested the importance of doctors reviewing the benefits and potential risks of these treatments after 5 or more years of use. It may then be possible for a temporary pause in an osteoporosis treatment for people whose risk of fracture is low. For others whose risk of fracture might be assessed as remaining high (particularly if they have sustained previous fractures) stopping treatment might be inadvisable and continuing to take the original or a different treatment might then be suggested.

RE: What drug would you advise?

SheilB — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:50:28 GMT

If you suffer from acid reflux I am not sure you should be prescribed AA. Give the Helpline a ring and discuss it with them before speaking again to your gp. Good luck.

What drug would you advise?

lindaweatherby — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:01:34 GMT

I am 61 yr old had osteopinnia for 2 yrs in spine and hip.Scan has just revealed I now have osteoporosis in spine.I have been taking Calcichew for 2 yrs.My doctor has prescribed aa but because I have nausea due to changing anti depressants she will give them me in 3 weeks time.She says they can be nauseous.I asked if there was anything else I could take because I have a history of nausea with any medication even an aspirin .I have also suffered from Acid reflux and wasnt able to take the medication prescribed by the hospital for that.She said no thats all there was and it would take 5yrs to show wether it had worked.This has left me feeling very worried.I have joined this forum and discovered all sorts of other drugs and why 5yrs?Cant find anything on that.I dont want to waste 5precious years worrying if it is getting worse.I am also very concerned about my nauseos reaction to any medication.Please can you advise.Linda Weatherby