<p>My wife has been diagnosed w osteoporis ( -2.9 ), and we are wondering if any one has taken any of the Rx that supposed to help rebuild bone denisity and how do you feel about them. Do they work, side-effects…</p>
<p>Some Rx, not limited to this list, she is considering are: Fosamax, Bonivir.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>I’ve taken Actonel and Boniva. I never had any side effects with either one. Boniva is a little more expensive (maybe $85 a month), but the advantage is that you only have to take it once a month. I think Fosamax and Actonel are prescribed either once a day or once a week. Who wants to take a pill with 8 oz. of water first thing in the morning and then have to wait 30 minutes for your morning coffee? I don’t.</p>
<p>They work. After taking the Actonel my bone density improved. However, I quit taking it and my next test worsened. I haven’t been tested since the Boniva Rx but I’m a much happy camper.</p>
<p>Thank you for your reply. Did you stopped Actonel because you were replacing it with Boniva ?</p>
<p>There has been recent (at least to me) info re jaw bone problems. You really have to consider the benefits vs possible problems. Each person is so different. Someone once described it much like cement for the bones. I would want to talk with a physician with experience using the meds perhaps specializing in osteoporosis. Before the dental stuff showed up, I was ready to get it for myself if my bone scan showed anything close to osteoporosis-I ended up ok. My dad takes it, meds for a couple of conditions have caused problems with his bones. I really think his recent dental problems are probably related to the the Fosamax/Actonel-has been on both. He is still on it.</p>
<p>Actually I stopped the Actonel because I just got lazy about it and didn’t the the prescription refilled. When I went back to the Dr., she said she had something new (the Boniva) and suggested the Boniva.</p>
<p>lamom, I had not heard that about these drugs. I have sometimes noticed some sensitivity around my jawline and I thought I was just getting TMJ. I will ask the Dr. about it and do some more research. Thanks for the heads up. I’ve only been on it for about 4 mos.</p>
<p>H is a Rheumatologist, so Osteoporosis is one of his areas of specialty. Yes, the meds work for rebuilding bone and the consequences of osteoporosis can be serious…spinal fx…(dowager’s hump) is one; hip fx in older people are one of the leading problems that ulitimately cause death. Both problems are preventable. The benefits outweigh the risks in the majority of people. He has me on Fosamax one time per week along with my calcium supplements. I just take it every Saturday morning, so it is easy to remember. He also takes calcium supplements</p>