An 800 pound gorilla recommends investments; talking babies discuss online stock trading; a gecko works for a car insurance company; a duck wants you to buy disability coverage… What will they think of next?
How about a “retired” flying nun, Sally Field, touting the benefits of Boniva (ibandronate), the first once-a-month bisphosphonate? Take a look at one of the ads for Boniva below:
Partial Transcript
“I always thought that calcium, vitamin D, and exercise would be enough to keep my bones healthy. Boniva works with your body to help stop and reverse bone loss… I was able to stop and reverse my bone loss, and studies show that after one year on Boniva, nine out of 10 women did too. I’ve got this one body and this one life, so I wanted to stop my bone loss. Ask your doctor if Boniva is right for you.”
So I decided to create my own ad for Boniva… but with a big twist
You see, my Boniva ad actually tells the truth. So now, without further ado, here is my new and accurate Boniva advertisement starring Sally Field:
Sally Field is sitting on her patio couch wearing white jogging pants and a blue t-shirt, her legs curled up on the seat. On top of a small coffee table in front of her, there is a thick and dried-up tree branch and a thin twig. As Enya’s inspiring “Only If” plays softly in the background, she says:
“I always thought that osteoporosis was a disease, and when I was diagnosed with it, my doctor told me that ONLY once-a-month Boniva could reverse my bone loss. At first I believed my doctor, but soon after – fortunately before filling my prescription – I discovered that he was wrong. I read on the internet that osteoporosis is not a disease and that there is a natural and drug-free way to reverse it. I was surprised to learn that Boniva can actually do more harm than good…”
Now there is silence, except for the music crescendo, as Enya sings “If you really want to, you can hear me say; only if you want to will you find a way.” Sally sits up straight and crosses her legs. The music volume is lowered and Sally goes on:
“Taking Boniva makes your bones more prone to fracture, and here’s why this happens. Exactly like its main competitors, Fosamax, Actonel, and Reclast, Boniva works against natural bone metabolism.
You see, Boniva binds to the bone matrix and stops normal bone resorption by inhibiting bone cells known as osteoclasts. Bone resorption is a necessary process to have strong and healthy bones because osteoclasts remove old bone to make space for new healthy, and more resilient bone tissue to be deposited in its place.
As a result of taking Boniva, new bone formation is greatly depressed, and your bones become old and dried-up with long-term accumulation.”
Sally picks up the thick branch and holds it in front of her with outstretched arms
“If you really want to you can seize the day”, Enya sings… Sally smiles and cracks the branch in half and holds the broken pieces in her hands:
“Take a look at this old and dried-up branch and notice how easily I split it in half. That’s exactly what happens to your bones: because Boniva stops your bones from renewing themselves naturally, they look thicker but become brittle.
This detrimental process takes a couple of years, and that’s why scientific studies showing density improvement when taking Boniva focus mainly on short-term results. Even though bone volume does not increase, bone is more densely packed and looks denser. But this stops after a while.
Like you, I want to reverse osteoporosis, but I don’t want to get fooled by a synthetic drug that offers short-sighted help. And what’s more, unlike my doctor, I believe that bone quality is more important than quantity. After all, my goal is to prevent fractures…”
Sally places the broken branch on the table and takes the thin twig in her hands. She tries to crack it, but it is flexible and instead of breaking, it gracefully bends. She continues:
“Now watch how this thinner but young and healthy twig resists breakage. Of course, you want your bones to be like it. So next time your doctor recommends Boniva, feel free to ignore him like I did, and opt for a natural and drug-free way to strengthen your bones.”
The music stops.
Sally gets up and walks away
The screen becomes black and a large Poison warning sign appears with a disclosure that reads:
“Even though this drug has been approved by the appropriate government agency to treat, cure, and prevent osteoporosis, you are basically on your own. Neither the agency nor healthcare practitioners, the latter with very few exceptions, care if you will suffer side effects when taking Boniva. After all, it’s a numbers game.
Moreover, the agencies involved can ignore new research showing detrimental effects of this drug, and even if those are confirmed, may simply issue a warning. Also, you must remember that the makers of Boniva have a lot more money than you, by the billions, and can therefore successfully fight any lawsuit by hiring the best lawyers.”
This remains visible on the screen while a woman’s voice is heard saying:
“If you are looking for a short-term osteoporosis ‘quick-fix’ and still want to take a chance with Boniva, please note that you are risking the following side effects, many of which may be irreversible: nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea, severe constipation, inflammation and ulceration of the esophagus, chest pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, skin rash, eye problems including vision loss and blurred vision, generalized pain of the muscles, joints, and/or bones, decreased mobility of joints, blood clotting disorders, anemia, dental problems, numbness, tight muscles in the face, seizures, irritability and unusual thoughts and behaviors, altered taste, atrial fibrillation, jaw pain, osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Additionally, as is the case with all bisphosphonate drugs, Boniva interferes with Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) production, an essential antioxidant that performs many important functions in the body. To find out more about how Boniva can ruin your life, please call the toll-free information line at 1-800-4NO-LIES.”
The screen fades to black.
Now that would be truthful advertising. As always, let me know what you think by leaving a comment below.
If you liked this article, click the "Like" button for Facebook:
Why Suffer? Start Increasing Your Bone Density Naturally Now!
If you want to accelerate your bone building results with an easy to understand resource that reveals exactly what I and thousands of others in our community did to increase our bone density naturally, then you absolutely have to check out the Save Our Bones Program.
It's filled with breakthrough, 'take-you-by-the-hand', nutritional, exercise, and lifestyle information that is proven to increase bone density naturally. The ‘Actions!’ at the end of the chapters outline exactly what to do and are all backed by over 100 scientific sources.
Related Articles
Fosamax: When Good Things Happen to Bad Osteoporosis Drugs
ALERT: Acid Reflux Drugs Increase Risk of Bone Fractures
ALERT: Bisphosphonates Double the Risk of Esophageal Cancer
Stop Taking Osteoporosis Drugs? It’s Never Too Late
Yet Another Good Reason to Avoid Osteoporosis Drugs
New Year Off To A Bad Start For Osteoporosis Drugs
We value your privacy and will never share your information with anyone.
May 14, 2012
I WAS TAKING Fosamax for more than 8years however the sbone scan did not show improvements. I had car accident and had fractures,Idid not think it was a cause of Fosamax side effects.When i eat I hear crackling in my left jaw,sometimes i have a slight pain,In year 2010,I fell,not a hard hit but I broke my femur,had surgery and therapy.also sometimes had difficulty swallowing asif I am choking. I was alarmed what is happening with me.I read about Fosamax side effects and told the Doctor.He did not seemed to be alarmed about the side effects of this drug.In later part of theyear 2011,I decided to stop the Fosamax and i also told the doc of which he did not approve my discontinuing of the drug. I began searching informations about Osteoporosis and found Save the Bones Program/Vivian Smith. Thanksfor her efforts. I bought the book.My bone scan this month showed a minimal improvement per my doctors info.I might not be following the program right. The calcium and Vitamin levels are okey. I am taking raw calcuim in capsule form 750mg and Caltrate(calcium) 100mg per day. Is there any suggestion for other supplements to take to improve the bone mass?. Thanks Vivian for any information.
May 7, 2012
Go girl, you make a good ad writer!
April 19, 2012
Hi Vivian ! What do you think of the Zometa IV ? every two months for osteporosis, been on it since 2008 and am 66yrs old. Thanks.
April 3, 2012
Vivian,
That was seriously hilarious. On a more sober not,I never heard of Boniva. Yes I have osteoporosis, arthritis diagnosed years back, sincerely followed doctor’s advice. One day good sense prevailed, reverted back to yoga, healthy diet, positive thinking and walking (irregularly). If you ask me it is all in the mind. And this platform of yours has more than enough positive information to delve into and use our intelligence. Cheers to Save Our Bones and you.
Thank you.
April 1, 2012
We were born with minds..hopefully we have kept sanity and still can reason and study. If you have done so, hopefully you have seen that we have industrial powers who seek profits at any cost wo rule the FDA and more. I urge all to use your mind, say no to canned goods, many drugs and vaccines and vote with your wallet. Small steps but some are happening. Write your Congreemen and Representatives and demand truth in labeling and true unbaiased reports on drugs and food additives and more. Do watch and listen to such as Vivian who have done the work and have your best interest at heart.
March 30, 2012
Gee, Vivian. I agree with you wholeheartedly! I had to laugh when I read your version of the Boniva ad. Very seldom are truths considered funny, but this was uproariously so! My only caveat is publishing derogatory comments by a celebrity without her knowledge or consent. That’s not to say that it wasn’t true and funny as heck, but she and/or her advertisers could sue you for misrepresentation or libel, even though it was all in fun. As a writer, I learned the hard way not to put words in anyone’s mouth (even a non-public figure) without their authorization. Hopefully, she is forgiving and sees the humor in the situation.) That being said, you are amazingly gutsy, and someone I truly admire. Yeah, my doctor wanted me to take Boniva at one time, and in fact, gave me samples of that poison. It seemed very innocuous at the time, but something warned me against it, and that was before the truth was known about bisphosphonates. I don’t know what that “something” was, but it totally turned me off, and I threw that sample in the trash where it belonged. I had the same reaction about statins, long before its deadly side-effects were made public, along with the fact that they do nothing at all for women, other than cause a lot of irreversible miseries. I’m even leery now of calcium supplements since reading your columns. Seems calcium ends up in the blood vessels and kidneys instead of the bones. And even it some does manage to reach our skeletal structure, it has little or no beneficial effects on it. Yay! We need more Vivians in this world, but I am so thankful we have you. Keep up the good work and we will eventually have generations of women with invincible bones, and hopefully what hasn’t worked so far will be ancient history along with witch doctors and wringer washing machines.
March 27, 2012
Can anyone tell me about Fosteum? it claims it’s not a drug, approved by the FDA. A blend of three things..Genistein, Chelazome and Cholecalciferol? My Dr. tells me because it’s a plant based product it can be damaging to my heart. Any thoughts on this? I was thinking about going on it. I have tried many Bisphosphantes and they make me feel terrible. And put me in more danger or breaking bones. I need to do something, I am so confused, please give me some suggestions.
March 11, 2012
It’s too bad I’m stuck with bottles of the dry Boniva!! The new pill sounds so much simpler to take!
March 7, 2012
good to know of a great doctor for this, except he is very far away.. I have “acid reflux” so bad that I am losing my teeth, have continuous open sores at the corners of my mouth. I sleep on 8 pillows, so I can remain in an upright position when sleeping. I can find NO doctor in Orlando Florida willing to help. Just Rx more prilosec and zantac. I am 75 years old and have little faith that this problem can be resolve itself in my lifetime.
April 2, 2012
marie b…please visit greattastenopain.com for the solution to your acid reflux problem. When you start eating right, your reflux will go away, right away!
March 24, 2012
Have you ever been tested for celiac disease? One of the many complaints is acid relux. A simple blood test may give you the results. A gluten-free diet will help heal the intestines and the resulting complication. Good luck!
March 13, 2012
Go to http://www.greattastenopain for the solution to acid reflux
March 1, 2012
On advice of Dr. I took Fosamax for about 1 yr. I argued at first as I don’t like taking Rx drugs. He intimidated me into taking it feeding me stats on hip fractures etc. I dreaded the day each week that I had to take it, feeling it upset my esophagus. I did my own research on the Internet and discovered how it ‘works’..Immediately stopped taking it! Also spoke to an osteopath who was against the drug. Upon reporting back to my Dr. my findings, he said “I think you’ve taken it long enough”. You think? I have not trusted his word since. Every time he pulls out the Rx pad, I remind him of my conviction about not taking Rx drugs. When I changed doctors however, I got the same reaction. They all want me to take it. I am Nordic and small and fair. I naturally am pre-disposed to ‘thinner’ bones. My 95 year old mom is also. Neither of us has ever broken or fractured a bone. This medicine is poisoning women. I tell everyone who takes it to stop but they are all too afraid because of what their doctors are telling them. This is a crime that goes unpunished.
January 25, 2012
What do you know about the suppliment OsteoValin? Worth while?
January 24, 2012
I like your advertisement. My husband and I always laugh at the commercials for “drugs”. The side effects always seem to be worse than the cure.
Thanks for keeping it “real”. All of us must be careful of the “appropriate” agencys – the new legistlation to monitor the internet for inappropriate conversations … whom ever has the money will win – and the truth be will be lost.
Peace,
Ellen
January 10, 2012
Thank you Vivian for all the work you do to bring all this good information to us. It has to take some time to put together informative and creative posts to keep us coming back to learn more. I learn from each post. Please keep up the good work. From one 73 yr old who may not have to spend her later years in pain from a broken hip or other bones. I have had a lot of broken bones over the years and I took Actonel for years. I can only hope that changing my way of dealing with this will turn it around. I also have jaw damage. It seems like it has stopped. Keep your fingers crossed for me to “get it” before it is too late. I am hopeful. Lovingly, Lynn
January 5, 2012
I met a lady today who until a few months ago was active. Running everyday and enjoying life. She was taking Boniva for op. Whilst out running she felt an extreme pain in her upper leg and fell. She had suffered a spontaneous fracture of her femur. She was hospitalised and now has a metal rod in the bone. She also experienced a crack in her other femur and now has a rod in that also. It has changed her life. She didnt know about the dangers of bisphosphanates.
January 5, 2012
The things that Dr. Vivian warns about are true. I work in a clinic and another staff person in her 60′s said she took Actonel (don’t know for how long) but stopped taking it seven years ago and still has not recovered from the damage to her digestion.
January 5, 2012
didronal pmo, fosamax, Actonel then BONIVA injection once every three months, none of them improved my bone density but just constantly made me worse completely, just getting more and more lethargic and unsteady, virtually walking like a drunken person. When I rang the hospital I was advised by the speccialist nurse to stop the injection and that it didn’t suit me also the osteoporosis society told me the same thing and was told it would take upto 5 or eight years to get out of my body, all that started about 20 years ago and since 2008 when I was prescribed the injection now at the beginning of 2012 I am almost 90% better, cant wait to feel like I used to before these drugs. I eat and drink as normal fdoing all the right stuff and exercise every day for two hours, also I swim. Good wishes to everyone for 2012 lots of love jean
March 30, 2012
The once-a-month Boniva shot wasn’t available (thank goodness) when it was prescribed for me. At that time, it was only in pill form and had to be taken every morning, with the caution not to lie down for 30 minutes. That alone sent up red flags, plus the fear of the unknown. I imagine a shot that lasts a month would be much more volatile than a daily pill, but actually, the result would be the same.
December 18, 2011
What are your thoughts and experiences with Prolia?
January 25, 2012
I, also, would like to know your thoughts on Prolia. My doctor has recommended it for me, after taking me off Fosamax. She said it affects the bones differently than all other osteoporosis drugs. What is your opinion?
December 12, 2011
I thought I found the cause of my osteoporosis. I have an elevated PTH of 100. When I visited the endocrinologist, she told me one I did not a history of elevated PTH because I was tested only once and my calcium and D3 levelswere normal. ( not entirely true they were on the low side of normal.The operation for hyperparathyroidism was a no-go. She agreed to get a history but kept pushing Forteo. I told her my severe osteopenia was at 2.5 so I was not inclined to go on Forteo. She was persistent and started to annoy me. I know she was annoyed too.
I did check the Forteo site and what did I find out …you should tell your doctor if you have Paget’s disease.I had genetic testing done many years ago and I do have genetic link to Paget’s disease. I do plan to write her a letter because she is at least willing to establish a history for PTH. Vivian, have you had any experience with PTH and osteo problems.
Irene
November 17, 2011
Hello,
I already had my bad experience with Fosomax & Boniva. I am now off of any osteoporosis drugs and take calcium, lots of vitamin D and fish oil and eat tuna, salmon, sardines and other calcium high foods. My Naturopath, all those years ago, was the first one to recommend these drugs. I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis around 1992. My ob/gyn in those days, before these drugs, put me on a very low grade of natural hormones for my osteoporosis. A few years later, my naturopath said based on my bone density scan, I must take one of these new drugs because my bones were very subject to breakage. At the time, she could not prescribe so I turned to my MD who prescribed Fosomax. She truly did it in good faith as did the Naturopath I believe. They truly believed at that time that this was a good thing. I switched to Boniva couple of years later but in 2001 I fell and broke my arm in about 8 places. At the time I fuzzily though – “how can this be such a terrible multiple fracture when I am taking Boniva?” The arm healed up fine but in 2008, my physician told me she was taking me off the medication because studies had shown that after 5 years the drug does no more and just stays in your body and no one knows for how long! She did not mention what types of damage it could do – in all fairness she may not have known. She is still my doctor to this day and has long since stopped recommending these drugs. In 2009, I developed a bad toothache and when I visited the dentist, the first thing I was asked was if I took these drugs and I told her my story stating that no, now I am off of them. She said it is a major cause of dental problems. That tooth was extracted and 2 months later a front tooth fell out while I was eating lunch. This past August, another tooth fell out so now I have 2 bridges and have paid out a fortune in dental bills. I had always had really good strong teeth until this time. I am 69 years old so age is a factor as well, but based on what my dentist said we feel my situation is largely due to the osteoporosis drugs I took for so long. Vivian’s program is wonderful and thank God she is getting the word out before more women experience these damaging and expensive side effects.
October 31, 2011
That is a great commercial. I wish you could buy some air time & put it on TV and in magazines so that the general public could be enlightened. People want to believe in their doctors, and because they are ignorant of the bone-building & remodeling process, go ahead & do what their physicians tell them to do. I was actually given a year’s worth of Boniva samples but something inside me told me not to just blindly take them. I never took one of them, especially after reading the warnings regarding gastric disturbance if you cannot stand up for an hour after taking it! So a year or more later when I had another bone density test, he actually sent over a prescription to my drug store of Fosamax and told me I had to take it because I had gotten worse. It was then that I discovered the “Save Our Bones” program & I am so amazed & happy to finally have the truth! A friend of mine was on it and developed jaw problems & suffered major pain & tooth removal. I now know it was probably from the Fosamax, I am so grateful to Vivian for the enlightenment. THANK YOU!
October 19, 2011
Hi Vivian,
This is the third time I’ve written to you, and I don’t want to believe that the reason you haven’t responded is because it’s something you can’t negate. I mentioned an article that appeared 2 weeks ago in the NJ “Newark Star Ledger” that a study showed Vitamin D has been linked to prostate cancer in men. I am so alarmed by this as I take 2000 mg. per day, and so do many women. Have you heard about this, and if it causes any cancer, should we be concerned? Thank you. Carol
October 19, 2011
Carol, the opposite is actually true — vitamin D can prolong the life of prostate cancer patients and even help fight the cancer. Here’s one example of a study by the Harvard School of Public Health:
http://vitamind3blog.com/2011/05/vitamin-d-prostate-cancer/
October 15, 2011
I believe you regarding the biphosphenates. But what about Evista? That is what my gynecologist prescribed for me. Where does it stand amongst all the others?
October 15, 2011
Pam, I talked about Evista in Question #3 in this blog post: http://saveourbones.com/vivian-answers-day-5/
September 25, 2011
Has any attempt been made to communicate with the FDA on the problems with bisphosphinates?
March 30, 2012
Of course the FDA knows. They would have to be deaf, dumb and blind not to. The question is, do they care? The answer: Of course not. As long as they make billions of dollars, they are going to keep producing and promulgating their deadly poison. Therefore, it’s essential that we follow Vivian’s bone program and never rely on the FDA, because they frankly don’t care how women suffer on bisphosphonates, as long as their bankrolls keep getting bigger and bigger. It’s a pathetic situation, but money talks and the population walks (mostly with crutches and walkers, except the for the unfortunate ones who have no mobility and rely on wheelchairs.)
September 3, 2011
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=148974
Reclast causes kidney failure in todays’ headlines September 3, 2o11
Good news for me. I have been eating a lot of tuna, eggs and salmon. Had my yearly bone density test last week and my physician who put me on Fosamax said that at this particular time, “You don’t need to take fosamax because your bone density tests came out pretty well.”
Hip hip hooray of course he said that it is the Vitamin D pills he ordered me that are doing the job. Perhaps but I still think it is because I am listening to Vivian’s advice. Kudos to vivian.
August 28, 2011
I’ts just too sad that Sally Field isn’t being enlightened by the truth as we here are. I like her and I wish that she could have good bone health as well. she’s not only doing her self a disfavor but all those who admire her.
I will be going to my physician soon and he will ask me how I am doing on the Fosamax he ordered for me. He will be furious when i tell him I stopped it and why but I’m furious that I am being sold a lie.
August 17, 2011
It would be nice if the “truth” could be aired on TV. Sally Field is a good choice to influence people to take the drugs…easy to look past the lies.
August 15, 2011
Searching desperately for a solution to my osteoporosis does a weight belt help?I take calcium and vitamin D.
September 13, 2011
There is a product called Osteodenx sold by the company Nikken. This product is published in the medical journal for prevention of osteoporsis. It promotes new bone formation naturally within 15 days of taking this along with the Caldenx and Lactoferin. Nikken is a Health and Research company that started in Japan 36 years ago. Great results and no medication.
August 27, 2011
If you are just taking calcium and Vitamin D, you are increasing your risk of calcium being deposited in your arteries = athlerschlosis and 30% greater heart attack risk. You should add Vitamin K2 to your supplement regimen and follow Vivian Goldshmidts Save Our Bones program. Vitamin K2 directs calcium to your bones. Vitamin K2 occurs in fermented foods like cultured hard cheeses (gouda and emmenthal are examples), fermented soy products (natto, miso, tempeh),naturally fermented kim chee and saurkraut. Dr. Oz recommends 150 to 300 mcg/day; however, I have seen recommendations as high as 5 mg/day. Mr. Vivian Goldschmidt’s program has recommended levels. B, Si, and Mn are also important trace elements to bone health, but you have to take the correct form.
August 3, 2011
How much longer can Fosamax, Boniva, Actenol, Reclast, and all the rest of the drugs that are supposed to “help” build stronger bones remain on the market as FDA approved? Shame on Sally Fields…I also wonder if she has actually ever taken Boniva. Thank you, Vivian, for helping all of us to get on the right track concerning the health of our bones.
July 23, 2011
Hi Vivian
The Pharmasutical companies , Food co’s and the FDA should all be arrested put in jail for producing and allowing all this poison to be brainwashed into the innocent, volnerable minds of the now ill people on this earth, all caused by them ,the responsible culprits that are rulling this world, KILLERS and that is what they are ” KILLERS ”
I’m sure that there is someone out there in this grande airwave unniverse, with the knowledge, and capability of creating a worldwide petition that can bring down and make changes concerning all this garbage
it would be a God sends to Mankind
Patricia
July 15, 2011
Saw my gynecologist the other day. He had an ad for Evista on the wall whic claimed that it hels to stall breasr cancer. However he told me that the trouble with biphospenates one has to not stop a dose for any reason or it doesn’t do a thing. Another reason to give up this crazy substance!
July 13, 2011
I took fosamax for about 2 years about 5 years ago after being diagnosed with osteopina…stopped for 2 years; then Actonel for 6 months and now I have been taking Boniva for the past 2 months. I now realize that since I have been taking all these medications, I have had so much backaches and pains; depression; insomnia; and most of all the symptons expressed by many, all of which I was blaming on the fact that I am getting older (I will be 63 in September). I don’t like taking any medication and after reading all of this information which is very scary, I am going to stop taking it and I am going to try your SaveourBones Program… I am so glad I ran into your website!!!Thank you so much for keeping us informed!!
July 6, 2011
Outstanding. Bravo! Put you on facebook with lauds. God bless you and your efforts to share the truth.
July 6, 2011
I had a bisphosphanate infusion (Reclast) 11
months ago. How long would you estimate that
the drug will remain in my body? By the way,
my T score is even lower now than before the
Reclast. My dr. has recommended I now try
Forteo which I am choosing not to do.
July 3, 2011
Dear Vivian and Osteoporosis comrades
Two years ago I was sent in for a bone density test, not too good. AP spine T-score was -3.4 and duel femur -2.2. My Dc. put me on Fosomax, told me not to read the side effects, but to follow the instructions about not eating or drinking or laying down for 30 mins. I was sick to my stomach for days. I kept on taking it but started to feel sick all the time, almost like had the flu, plus other problems, the worst one was my mouth starting hurting really bad and everything tasted of metal. But like the idiot I am I kept on taking it for 6 months until the pharmacist told me to quit taking it and call my Dc. Immediately.She never said a word about the possibility of jaw lose, and shrugged her shoulders when I told her about the metal taste. She put me on Evista which I only took for 2 months, got really tired of feeling lousy all the time, still couldn’t eat much and found it hard to even brush my teeth. I just wanted to curl up in a ball. I didn’t call my Dc. to tell her Ihad quit taking the drug. Started taking more calcium and D-3. had to go to the Dc. this April, turns out she was no longer there. My new Dc. sent me in for another test. Not good, spine now -4.1 and femurs -2.4 She tried to talk me into taking the Forteo shots everyday even gave me a free months supply. oh by the way they cost almost $1,200.00 a month. Anyway I came home in tears, my hubby said we can find a better way, so I got on my I-pad and did some research, thank God we found Vivian’s web site, what a blessing. Bought her book and I am working on all her advice. Hope to God it works for me so I can tell my Dc. See there is a better way.
So anyone out there thinking about taking any of the drugs for osteoporosis DON’T !! I’m still having jaw and teeth problems. I need to have my teeth pulled, but even if I can find a dentist that will do it I’ll end up with jaw rot.
Bless you Vivian for all your research and caring. Wish I had found you 2 years ago. Best Regards Valerie
July 4, 2011
I’m so sorry to hear that you’re yet another victim of these drugs, Valerie. Following The Save Our Bones Program should put you back on the right track.
July 4, 2011
Thank you Vivian for your encouragement. I will do my best. Happy 4th of July to you and your family.
Sincerely Valerie
June 30, 2011
I try to cancell the reminder because I do not take boniva and i get rejected with my street can you help me
June 21, 2011
well you certainly got to the bottom of the barrel where the truth lies. I hope you don’t get into any trouble for doing this. Like always I forgot to take my fosomax 4 three days now . I’m going to try to go your way , just give me all the exercises I must do .
June 12, 2011
i really doubt that sally fields took boniva !
case sceranio back in the 1950′s pat boone and his daugthers advertised they used a certain acne drug and showed there smooth faces and they later amitted they never used it how can it be proven if sally fields really took boniva?
May 28, 2011
People need to get a grip. We live in a capitalistic society. By and large we are not about people and their health we are about making money. We need to take care of ourselves. Read Read Read. Don’t get me started. LOL I am 81, take no meds, no over the counter stuff either. When I was in my 20′s I read that we would become a nation of pill poppers. I decided then and there not to become a pill popper. After my first baby I decided I wasn’t going to have another one the way medicine wanted me to, Going to a Dr. and participating in what they thought was the right way to have a baby. Back then Drs were all men. You get the picture , right? What could they possibly know about having a baby. So I read books on natural childbirth. I learned self-hypnosis. Had 3 more babies and yes I did go to a Dr. and the experience went my way and it was great, the births were easy. I have been told 4 times throughout my life that I had cancer. Never did have it. Didn’t go through with any meds or operations and believe me, they wanted me to do both. When menopause time came I got a hot flash. Of course the Dr. suggested I go on a hormone. Did not take them. I Did my self hypnosis. Never had another problem. When I was 72 my Dr. ask me to have a bone scan. I did. She suggested a drug. Don’t remember what is was. Didn’t take it. Thanks to all of the info that is available on the Internet and all of you have the best of the best with Vivian. By and large there is no need for drugs. Today it is all about statins. The Drs. want me to take statins. Wouldn’t touch them with a ten foot pole. They don’t like it, but I say I am responsible for my life and my death and I will die my way not theirs. If you are taking statins get off of them. The miracle of life is within you. Start reading. I have been reading about nutrition very seriously. Check it out. There is a reason we are having more heart attacks and diabetes and bone problems. It is our food supply. Start reading. Change is hard but it can be done. I write things down and keep track of the supplements I take and yes I take a lot of them. And yes, I forget some of them every day even though I write it down. We are humans. Don’t be so hard on yourselves. And yes supplements are far more expensive than drugs, but I am worth it. I am not rich so get that out of your head. Try your hardest not to make excuses for you behavior. You are the best thing that ever happened to you.
July 23, 2011
Hello Sue
BRAVO to you
Patricia age 68,
July 9, 2011
Sue David,
What an inspiring woman you are. I am 52 and was diagnosed with osteoporosis at 50. (Other than that, all my numbers are fine, had many bad falls in my lifetime and never broke anything). Took Actonel for about one year then started having severe joint pain, confusion, and depression…I blamed it on menopause at first, but then I started analysing how everyone my age seems to be on some kind of prescription drug or another, and knowing how big pharma operates through our well meaning Doctors, (for the most part), I decided I will not be part of this game, cause it`s MY life, not theirs. So I stopped the drug about 7 months ago, saw a chiropractor for a hip which had loss a lot of its mobility. My hip, back, knees are fine now…Go figure…Mother nature Wins… LOL
October 25, 2011
Good for you, Sue David. What a welcome
response to the idea of NO DRUGS. I am 78 years old and I do not take any drugs
either. It is interesting that when you are asked what meds you take and your response is NONE, the reaction is surprise! And sometimes disbelief. I read ,read ,take supplements and have learn to apply Reflexology to my body.
This is a remarkable technique to keep the body healthy. So you continue
what you are doing by encouraging women to take responsibility for their health. Pushing drugs is a crime and it’s all about the money.
May 23, 2011
All bisphosphevnate drugs for osteoporosis are at best left alone l have at least nine fractures while being on the drug, gum and throat problems was being ill all the time while on the drugs, now l take natural vitamins and eat healthy, walk my dog keep active l am better than l have been for years, l was diagnosed with the osteoporosis 6years ago l am 72 years old, BRENDA .
May 21, 2011
Vivin thank you for this great info.
May 21, 2011
I have severe osteoporosis. I have had several very hard fall’s and not broken anything which is hard to understand. I took Atonel for several year’s then quit for a year then I took Foximax for a few months and switched back to Atonel and now nothing. I am 64 and clean houses so I have to carry alot of heavy stuff around everyday. I quit taking the pills mostly due to this site. I was taking alot of calcium also and then I read calcium leaves you 20% more likely to have a heart attack. Lots of heart problems in my family so I dropped the calcium tablets. I drank ton’s of milk and read on here milk is bad for your bone’s. I also eat tons of yogurt and cheese. It seems every thing I try to help just bites me in the butt. I am raiseing my 13 year old adopted son and if something happens to me he is screwed as we have no other family. I am just panicked here about my health. I barely pay my bills and can’t order this book but I do keep checking the website often
April 18, 2011
Yeah Vivian, I loved your rebuttle. I too opted for a better way. With you help and the group sharing, I think I can get improved bones the natural way, your way. I was thinking about the times over my life when I went to a doctor to get help with This or That. I was always given a perscription to battle the problem with. I must say many times I didn’t get the perscription filled because I didn’t think the perscription description matched the systoms of my problem. I am so glad I did research for my diagnoses of Ostoporosis. That’s when I met the “SaveOurBones” program online. Without taking bad medications, I am learning to treat my bones better with diet and exercise. I believe my bones are responding! I am happy I found the “Program.”
April 11, 2011
Vivian,
As I’ve said before (but you never seem to publish anything that disagrees with your “theories”) you are a fear monger and are making money off of these threats to vulnerable individuals about science you know nothing about so it seems from your comments…you should ask for the newly available time Beck slot on Fox News Channels…you would fit right in!
Most sincerely,
Michael DiMuzio, Ph.D.
March 30, 2012
Your comment is typical, and what unsuspecting women believe. I gave up the idea long ago that doctors are gods and that prescription drugs were panaceas for every disease known to mankind. Well, I’m a lot smarter now, thank goodness, and I only go to naturopathic doctors that use supplements to cure diseases, the way God intended. If you think you’re so much more intelligent than God, you need help.
January 10, 2012
Michael..I can see you are really afraid that someone is going to pull the wool over your eyes. As I study this issue, I see so many people who agree with Vivian’s program. As I am one who took all the advise of my doctors and got worse, then started a Raw Vegan diet 6 months ago, and include the suggested supplemts, I have got better. I am experiencing a big turn around in my general health. Heart,digestion,strength,etc…have all improved. I have a way to go, but now I know I will keep getting better. I still work with a medical doctor and we are all working toward one goal. Health. Don’t be afraid. Jump on the health train and come along. It is amazing to feel the new resurgence of good health and vigor. Lynn
September 12, 2011
FIRST DO NO HARM. Whatever happened to the Hippocratic Oath ??? I believe MANY Doctors, not all fortunately, have forgotten this oath and are purely out to make money. Many, many drugs are actually worse than the disease they are supposed to cure. It also seems that few doctors are even willing to consider a more natural cure which would not be so hard on the body, because they don’t get any kick-backs for it from a drug company. Doctors need to stop treating their patients like fools and start treating them again with respect. Start earning the trust we are obliged to put in you and your qualifications .
May 14, 2011
Michael, have you checked any of the real unbiased research showing how bad and USELESS those drugs are? Just another money making scheme for doctors that don’t want to look for real answers, greedy drug companies and the corrupt FDA that is killing people or destroying their lives with garbage! I wouldn’t touch those drugs if they paid me! OLD bone needs to be replaced with new bone, not left to create bone that looks good on Xray but is brittle – not to mention the idea of going blind or having the esophagus erode. There is plenty of information showing how bad these drugs are besides this site! But I guess you follow the dollar signs like the rest of the greedy ones!
July 23, 2011
Bravo
for telling off these greedy cold hearted sopposed to be helping Human kind Dr’s
Patricia
April 16, 2011
Michael you sound like the typical greedy doctors who are more concern with how much money they have in their bank accounts vs the safety of their patients. I took a bisphoshonate and experience many of the side effects that Vivian mentions. The worst side effects that I experience were difficulty swallowing, inflammation & ulceration of my esophagus, jaw pain, muscle and joint pain. The pain was by far the worst of the side effects because it kept me bedridden. I suggest you take this medication yourself and then you can see if Vivian is telling the truth! If you aren’t willing to do this than keep you vile and misleading opinions to yourself!
July 23, 2011
Good for you Kate
March 14, 2011
I have followed the advice in here, especially the exercise, and found that with my special vitamin supplement and strontium, my bone mass has increased by nearly 20% in 2 years. I was -3.0 T score in 2009 in the spine but increased bone mass until I am -1.8 T taken March 10, 2011. My doctor is amazed, and I am so happy to share this information with you all. Use the exercise bands, but a little stress on your spine and core with some exercise everyday, and walk everyday, either inside or outside. Also, within that period, I began babysitting my granddaughter and pick her up everyday for diaper changes, etc, and we have a daily dance session. I have done other things like moderate yoga, but I believe the vitamins supplements and strontium were the core benefit which helped me get the upper strength and move into healthier and stronger bones.
March 10, 2011
Loved the “new” Sally Field ad! She should be ashamed of herself, touting dangerous lies about Boniva. Also, thanks, Vivian, for the info on the new Atelvia…………..I was wondering about this “new” drug, and shocked to find out it is just the same old book with a brand new cover………….No Thanks!
March 1, 2011
My wife broke her right femur Oct. 7 2010 merely by stepping down one step. She had to have three surgeries. A week after her first surgery Oct. 13 there abouts the FDA came out with it’s recent statement about More increased risk of Femur and Femoral neck fractures. Yet they won’t pull it. Doctors today are more interested in pushing drugs ($$$$) instead of taking care of their patients. Every single one of them ought to be sued for breaking their Hipoccratic Oath of “Doing no harm to their Patients”!
September 12, 2011
Thank you sir. That is exactly my thoughts. I was so glad to scroll down the page a bit further and find your message. We could do with a return of the ethics of some of the Doctors in the past. I’m sure they had their fair share of charlatans too but I believe the money hungry issue is rife these days. There are such big payoffs for promoting the drug companies. In my mind many of them are no better than the drug lords who sell cocaine, heroin, ‘P’ and the rest of that garbage.
February 26, 2011
if all your comments are true about the bones why don’t the media take it up on TV like Sally Field. She talks why don’t you?
July 9, 2011
You need to find out who Owns the Media…
February 21, 2011
I want to thak you for telling the truth! I was diagnosed back in 2006, wasn’t to bad then. But now, I have gotten worse. I’ve tried just about every Osteo medicine, but all of it upset my stomach. So, I stoped taking it, and am so greatfull to have found your site. Last year I had Laser Spine Surgery for other back prblems, it has not helped. I have a hard time walking, and loose my balance alot. I feel and broke my arm, and am in pain 24/7. My son cooks dinner every night, which I am greatfull for, but still, I’m depressed because I use to do everything. Does Osteo cause pain? Or d you think that my pain is from my Scoliosis, Degenerative Disks, Herniated Disks? I’m 60 years old, and never thought that I’d end up this way. I am going to order your book, but I think it’s to late for me, because my T score is about as low as it can go.
Once again, thank you for telling the truth, and helping people!
July 23, 2011
Dear Linda
It is never too late to make a fresh start on your health
there is a reason that you have come across Vivian’s site,
God works in mysterious ways, and this is one of them, hurry up and get Vivians’s book, and start healling your body
God bless you and listen to him
Patricia
February 16, 2011
I have been diagnosed with osteo with a-3.3 t score at the age of 45 now diagnosed at age 40 have not taken anything because I can’t afford it had a complete hysterectomy when I was 23 due to endemeterosis which is why they say I have osteo so bad lack of hormones is there any natural cure for this I had a fracture in T12 in 2007.
July 23, 2011
there is a natural cure for everything
February 12, 2011
I love your take on the advertisement. As you say,once diagnosed “you are on your own ” especially when you turn down the prescription that the consultant hands you. However I have found that your Save our Bones programme to be the most informative and helpful book and I am using the guidance in it to help me with the osteoporosis. As regards to this and everything else , the natural way is ALWAYS best .