The Forteo Mystery: What You Should Know About This Puzzling Drug
Pharmaceutical companies are constantly trying to outdo each other and to come up with new patentable drugs for diseases that already have existing drug treatments.. A good example of this is teriparatide, or Forteo in the US (Forsteo abroad), a new class of osteoporosis drug known as anabolic agents. This daily injectable drug was approved by the FDA in 2002.
Forteo is an incomplete synthetic or man-made form of the human parathyroid hormone (PTH). You see, human PTH has 84 amino acid residues but teriparatide has only 34. Teriparatide has become the osteoporosis drug of choice mainly for patients who can’t tolerate bisphosphonates, have failed to improve with bisphosphonate therapy, or suffer from extreme bone loss.
As touted in the drug’s insert, Forteo “increases bone mineral density and bone strength.”
Many unanswered questions
But the puzzling catch with Forteo is that the way in which it works remains a mystery. This is openly acknowledged by its maker, pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Company. As explained in the drug’s brochure, “the role of PTH in control of bone mass is still not really understood” and that “intermittent spikes of PTH, such as given by daily injection, will cause more increase in bone formation than in bone resorption… This has been shown in rats.”
Unfortunately, what has also been shown in rats is the development of osteosarcoma, a lethal bone cancer caused by an abnormal proliferation of osteoblasts or bone-forming cells. Below, I quote again from Eli Lilly’s pamphlet (http://pi.lilly.com/us/forteo-medguide.pdf):
“During the drug testing process, the medicine in Forteo caused some rats to develop a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. In people, osteosarcoma is a serious but rare cancer. Osteosarcoma has been reported rarely in people who took Forteo. It is not known if people who take Forteo have a higher chance of getting osteosarcoma.”
Because of this serious side effect risk, Forteo is prescribed for a maximum of two years. This is as close as one can get to playing Russian roulette! Who would trade a potential fracture for the awful risk of acquiring a lethal cancer? And as if this were not enough, teriparatide has a long list of nasty side effects such as joint and chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, esophageal problems, nausea, and vomiting. Plus having to inject oneself subcutaneously each and every day is most certainly no picnic.
Exorbitant price tag leads to exorbitant profits
The unanswered questions don’t seem to hamper Forteo’s skyrocketing success. According to drug-industry analysts, an estimated 600,000 prescriptions were written in 2005, which generated more than $350 million in revenues. And in 2008, Eli Lilly reported $778 million in sales. (http://newsroom.lilly.com/ReleaseDetail.cfm?releaseid=362195).
Indeed, the future looks bright for Forteo. As predicted by Pharmacor’s June 2009 osteoporosis report, by 2018 Forteo sales may reach close to the $2 billion mark.
One easy way to explain these numbers is Forteo’s exorbitant price tag. It costs nearly eight times as much as bisphosphonates, running up a tab of about $6,700 a year. That’s a pretty high cost for a drug whose mechanism is not even remotely understood!
Doctors ignore ignorance?
Another puzzling aspect of this drug is that while doctors openly admit their ignorance regarding how it works, they choose to prescribe it anyway.
Dr. Roberto Pacifici, head of the division of endocrinology at Emory University School of Medicine, comments that “…how intermittent treatment (with teriparatide) works has remained a mystery”. (http://whsc.emory.edu/home/news/releases/2009/09/bone-building-hormone.html).
This is clearly a rather unusual and perplexing situation to say the least.
And it sounds like a job for Agent 4T0…
Mission: Impossible
Remember the TV series with this name? I used to be a big fan of Mission: Impossible. Each episode began with secret recorded instructions to the brave agents describing a very complex and often dangerous mission. The agents could decide whether to accept the mission or not. Of course, the fearless members of the Impossible Mission Force (IMF) never walked away and in the end, always succeeded. But here’s what happens when a reluctant osteoporosis drug is the agent chosen for the mission… Read my Mission: Impossible spoof below:
“Good morning, Mr. Paratide. Your mission, should you decide to accept it, comes from the top boss, Big P.”
“You can call me Terry… What is my mission?”
“First, from now on your new name is Agent 4T0. Your mission is to strengthen this patient’s bones and report back to us detailing exactly what you did. And you have to report back to us fast, 4T0. Time is running out.”
“Well, I may be able to strengthen the bones, but I have no idea of what I’m doing! Big P knows that we’ve been trying to find out without success. I need written instructions!”
“You’re the ACTIVE INGREDIENT, for crying out loud! Plus Big P has given you a team of helpers…”
“What… you mean the Inactive Ingredients? I don’t see how glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate, mannitol, metacresol, and hydrochloric acid can help me. They’re INACTIVE, remember?”
“Stop acting like a coward, 4T0. Here’s a little secret for you: metacresol is highly flammable and poisonous – even lethal in the right dose. It can help you solve this mystery if anyone gets in your way. So get creative and solve it once and for all.”
“I’m not a fighter! I’m just a synthetic wannabe, I don’t know what to say…”
“Remember our motto: Ignorance is Strength. You don’t have to know anything… nobody has to know anything… that’s our strength, 4T0. Big P’s survival depends on ignorance. Just invent something and Big P will make sure that everyone will take our word for it.”
“Yes, I know that’s the way we’ve been operating in the past, but now people are waking up real fast…Why me, why me?”
“This tape will self-destruct in five seconds.”
“Oh, nooooooo!”
So there you have it.
Were you prescribed Forteo? Even if you weren’t, please share your experiences, thoughts, and comments with the community below.
Related Posts
Fosamax: When Good Things Happen to Bad Osteoporosis Drugs
Exposed: The Osteoporosis Trick AND Treat
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
Osteoporosis drugs may produce healthy statistics, but not healthy people
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March 2, 2010
Education of ourselves is the only way we will learn what is truth. Thanks for the infomation!!
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March 1, 2010
My doctor wanted me to do the forteo injections after a bone density test that showed a decrease from the previous year. I had been previously presacribed fosamax but I had stopped for a couple of months – not because of experiencing side effects – but because on principal I really didn’t like how bisphosphantes operate. I refused the forteo, but was frightened into religiously taking my weekly fosamax for the following year and the next bone density was marginally better. (I try, but cannot get from this doctor actual numbers – T-score or Z-score tho’ I know it’s somewhere one side or the other of -3. Now that I’ve read your Save Our Bones book and am making some diet changes – specifically working on the acid-alkaline balance I am agTain stopping fosamax and am keeping fingers crossed and hoping for at least no deterioration when I have next bone density test which will be in September 2010. I also have a rebounder, do tai chi, and am very active around the house – up and down stairs – gardening in summer etc. I have had a couple of compression thoracic vertebral fractures, but am lucky in that I don’t have pain…just back gets achy sometimes…. Thanks for all your work in getting out positive information about what we can do to avoid bone loss.
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February 24, 2010
I am taking OsteoValin which is supposed to help new bone growth! I need to have another DEXA scan to see if it has helped. Any comment on this product? Carole Berg
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February 20, 2010
I was given Forteo for 1 year my spinal T score was number -2.9 femur -3.4 . I gained 7% bone mass in my spine . I am happy with the gain
but have changed to Reclast as my therapy this year.
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February 17, 2010
shouldnt all this info surely be reported to health canada, or all doctors in canada and us, or some other companies like pharmaceuticals,
the doctors just keep prescribing all these non beneficial drugs to us, wht about research companies, how will people know? what not to take, or use! what works and what does not????
it makes me so mad>>>>> the info about the animal protein….milk for your bones??? we should all sue the milk companies????they are worth billions……and poor us…..
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February 17, 2010
i was told by a chiropractor that the best thing to take to prevent and repair osteo is a calcium called hydroxyappetite calcium, supposedly it has been proven that this increases bone density
what does anyone know about this including you?
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February 13, 2010
Hi Vivian, just another thank you for the inforamtion you send us. I stopped taking Actonel because of it. I had been on it about 2 years, but when I had my second dexa scan, there was no improvement, indeed a slight decrease, so I stopped. I eat fairly well, don’t smoke, and am thinking of drinking almond milk, or rice milk, or good soya milk. At the moment, I can see no difference in how I feel, in fact I think I had a hip ache occasionally when I did take the Actonel, but not now.
Thanks once again.
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February 3, 2010
I recently went to a new gynecologist who called me in to discuss the results of my bone density test. He explained that I had the bones of a woman 20 years my senior and that I could fall and die. Then he began his sales pitch for Forteo. He was unable to answer most my questions, and skirted the issues on the few he did address. When I asked about the side effects, he only said that his patients who had taken it had no problems and showed marked improvement. He used a model of a bone that was practically hollow and 4 inches across to supposedly resemble my spine. The whole conversation was so ridiculous, I actually asked him what his kick back was from the drug company to make him push something so strongly. When I got home and researched Forteo on the Internet, I was flabbergasted to think that anyone would allow themselves to anything so horrendous.
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January 31, 2010
Dear Vivian, I am about to ask for your advise on a very strange problem. If you dont know how to help me can you at least point me into the right direction. My daughters right leg has Atrophy–which means dying, right? At her ankle she can wrap her fingers around to touch each other and the length is shorter than the left. Her whole right food is is thinner. The pain is controlled by IBPROVIN and FLEXORAL ONLY AT TIMES.Now just the IBPROFIN ONCE A DAY. She can not exercise or walk very far. Heat hurts it she says. I realize you are not a doctor but because you are a scientist maybe you can shed some light one this for me. She is 39 this year, just had a hystorectomy in June has had nothing to assist her with hot flashes or mood swings. This has been going on for at least 3 months. The doctor she sees, took an xray and found nothing broken, and ask her if she ever fell or hurt her back. Obviously, she needs her Chiropracter to have a look. The hardest part of all this Vivian, she is in a correctional facility for a misdemeaner since last June. She said to me today, I might have Cancer of the bone, because the pain never stops. If you can help me with any kind of suggestion, I would be every greatful to you. Sincerely, Eve
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January 28, 2010
Has anyone any experience with the uses of bacteriophages or any progress being made to introduce their use as an effective alternative to antibiotics. What a saving it would make for the poorer countries as well as all the others.
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January 28, 2010
Vivian,
I read about Ezorb Calcium in someone’s comments and wondered what you think of it. I take Calcium Citrate now along with Magnesium, Vitamin D and K. http://www.ezorbcalcium.com/index.html
Thanks for all your hard work and information.
Madeleine
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February 10, 2010
I take the same as Madeleine (Jan 28.2010) for osteopenia. Should I change to ezorbcalcium?
Many thanks Kurt
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February 19, 2010
Healthy hard bone is actually live cells just like your nails, hard on top but live cells just under the hard area. So to have healthy strong bones your body has to build these cells. A recipe for bone cells or bone tissue is like a cake recipe. The cake recipe uses a large amount of flour some liquid and small amounts of other ingredients. The recipe for bone cells is a lot of calcium, some phosphorus, and 25 to 30 other trace elements. (Note bone is not made out of Strontium.) If you only have half of the flour required by the recipe the cake will not bake correctly. If the body only has half of the calcium needed for bone tissue recipe the bone tissue will not come out correctly. So the key to building bone tissue is being able to get enough calcium over to our blood and tissue side of our body where it will be stored inside our bones. Our bones act as a store house for calcium the body needs for many things like building new bone cells, repairing the hard bone where needed, and building new bone cells where the old dead bone cells were removed. We will only address building bone tissue.
Calcium come in two forms inorganic and organic. Bone tissue can be built out of any calcium compound from the worst inorganic; Calcium Carbonate 5% absorption rate to the very best inorganic; Calcium Citrate 25% absorption rate. There are many other inorganic calcium’s which will fall in between these two. All inorganic calcium must have vitamin D and magnesium to make it absorbable. Organic calcium does not need vitamin D or magnesium to be absorbed.
The problem with these inorganic calcium compound is the body will only absorb small amounts. Example: if you take 2000 milligrams of Calcium Carbonate the body will only absorb 100 milligrams or if you take 2000 milligrams of Calcium Citrate the body will only absorb 500 milligrams. A woman at 3rd month pregnancy the baby will use more calcium than 500 milligrams so how is a adult suppose to survive on such a small amount of calcium. The body needs thousands of milligrams to build bone tissue.
EZorb is organic calcium, 100% pure CalciumAspartateAnhydrous and is extracted from green vegetables like spinach. Spinach contains more calcium than any other vegetable we eat. The dose of EZorb for a person between 100 to 160 pounds is 4480 milligrams taken and 92.06% equals 4124 milligrams absorb then stored inside your bones waiting to be use by the body. This dose is equal to eating 1 1/3 gallons of cook spinach. There is no such thing as too much stored calcium. There is such a thing as too much inorganic calcium because 75% to 95% is not absorb.
Inorganic calcium are high in elemental calcium which has been found to cause body stones and is the reason we can not just take more inorganic calcium to make up for the poor absorption rate. EZorb will not cause body stones because 92% is absorbed. As we get older the osteoblasts cells also show signs of getting older by not keeping up with building bone tissue as fast as osteoclasts cells remove dead bone cells. EZorb has one other property that being it will stimulate the osteoblasts cells causing them to build more bone tissue than normal for our age.
In the beginning I said healthy bones are live bone cells. All cells in our body have a PDL predetermine life so bone cells will die. This is where our osteoclasts cell come into play by removing dead bone cells. After dead cells are removed that leaves a hole or depression where healthy bone cells can be built. If your body could build new bone cells over dead bone cells then as time goes by our bone would continue to grow bigger. So I hate to be the one to tell Sally Field that loosing bone is a good thing otherwise there would be no place to build new healthy bone tissue.
So I will tell you there is no magic dust in any bottle of calcium so quite wasting time looking for it. Just purchase calcium by absorption rate and let your body build strong bones as God design it to do. Once absorbed calcium is calcium no mater where it came from. The key or secret is getting enough calcium absorbed where the body has enough for the osteoblasts cells to build bone tissue.
Another word of advise is to not to put too much emphasis in DEXA scans. DEXA scan machines can not tell the difference between dead brittle bone cells or healthy bone tissue. Dead bone cells are more dense than live bone cells. So if a person has been taking bisphosphates drugs over a period of time their body will have retained many dead bone cells making the DEXA scan numbers look better while bone health has worsen. Strontium will also make DEXA scan numbers look better.
I use to have severe osteoporosis in 2004 and in 2007 was back to normal bones taking only Calcium Aspartate Anhydrous. Still taking the calcium in 2010 and my last DEXA scan shows normal bones no change since 2007.
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February 22, 2010
where do I find the EZorb?
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February 24, 2010
Is EZorb and Calcium Aspartate Anhydrous the same product. Where can I find it and dosage did you take daily? Carole
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January 26, 2010
As always, thank you for the information. I believe that my bone density is improving every day with the natural changes that I have made and through a regular exercise program.
Best wishes to everyone,
Andrea
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January 26, 2010
I would not try that new drug. It seems it is another drug messing with hormones.
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January 26, 2010
sounds like this is another drug we should NOT be taking- the side effects sound worse than the drugs that are out there now.
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January 26, 2010
Dear Vivian,
I am amazed at the vast numbers of respondents about their cases & difficult situations. I am glad to know there are a few who did well on Forteo. You are getting so much info for your research. I would like them to know about Ezorb calcium which absorbs to the maximum & also follow your diet,low weight bearing exercises,& balance manual suggested by you will help lots of postmenopausal women.I love you for your commitment & I am learning a lot too.thanks a lot
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January 25, 2010
I, too, was asked to take Forteo and my answered was NO. I also have checked online about Strontium and knew it was not for me. Yes, your statement “Mission Impossible” is right to the point. Love your info. Keep up the good work.
Anne
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January 25, 2010
Dear Vivian,
I have been fighting osteoporsis for many years, at this point my score is -3.76 for my hips a little better for my back. I am allergic to dairy products, and to the meds for this problem, I was taking the forteo for about 4 months then stopped. I try eating the right foods to get the calcuim that I need, but it seems like nothing works. Each year it keeps getting worse, I am only 45 yrs old and exercising is extremly painfull, I have other medical issues that affect joints and muscles. any advise on what to do will be appricated.
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January 24, 2010
Dear Vivian,
I love all your articles. WE’re in trouble for one reason “greed.” It starts at the top and works it’s way all through society. Keep up the good work. Phyllis
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January 24, 2010
I too was prescribed Forteo but with the reading I did and the bone cancer risk, I turned it down. I am regretting the ten years that I took bisphosphonates. I am left with a dry swallow, hoarse voice, stiff joints and still ended up with a fractured hip! I have lost faith in the old treatment for osteoporosis and was skating three times a week to stay fit. Now I can no longer do that!
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January 24, 2010
Yes – I was prescribed Forteo and given no other options as my Osteoporosis is quite advanced. I walked out of the Dr’s office and never went back.
I am now seeing an Internist/Nutrition expert who has run an Osteoporosis trial. She felt I was not a candidate for Forteo at this time .
I am adamant about not taking the bisphosphomates or Forteo so she is agreeable to letting me try out taking a superior form of calcium, Vit d, Strontium Citrate and weight bearing exercises for this year.
I am praying my Dexa Scan shows an improvement , or at least not a decline.
I do not like taking medications and am looking for any natural alternatives that may be out there .
If anyone has further suggestions, please let me know.
Good luck to all that are out there with the same diagnosis as mine.
I work in a nursing home and know the devastating effects Osteoporosis can have!
Frangelica
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January 24, 2010
The information you are giving on Forteo is what I found in my research. My doctor seemed disturbed by my findings and said there is a lot of mis information on the internet. He said that rats bones are difference because they still grow and the cancer was at the growth end of the bone which we do not grow. I was approved for the drug but just can’t seem to bring myself to do it. I just don’t trust the drug companies, they have done some good things, but there are the horror stories too. I have a severe case and feel lost about what to do.
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January 24, 2010
Don’t be lost, Dee. The Save Our Bones Program can guide you and help you make an intelligent and informed decision.
January 24, 2010
Dear Vivian,
Amazing! What people would do to get dirty green dollar!
I am scared to read all those poor peoples comments and wonder where are the ethics, morality, principles? Do such words still exist?
Thank You for caring,
Rosemary
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January 24, 2010
After a bone density test by an ossteosporosis physician, it was recommended I take Forteo. He, at the same time, gave me written information about side effects, etc. When I showed my concern for the risks involved and asked if he would presribe it for his mother, his reply was that he “had to” inform me about Forteo. He did not push further. He suggested I at least take liquid calcium citrate w/D3.I had taken Actonel for about 4 years with no favorable results. After reading about the side effects of all the drugs, I decided to go with the 2000 liquid calcium w/5000 D3 which I get at the health food store. One of the side effects of the drugs were possible rot jaw if you had dental work. Recently I had to have two teeth surgically removed and am very happy I hadn’t started the Forteo or any of those drugs. I had tried Fosomax for about a week and ended up with serious esophogus problem so I guess I will take the liquid calcium w/D3 and hope for the best. Besides, the cost of the Forteo was $700/mo which I could no way afford.
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January 23, 2010
i have a prescriotion of forteo but i have not filled it yet im still trying to decide
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February 14, 2010
After 8 years on Actonel my dexa numbers are worse. My doctor prescribed Forteo last August and I could not bring myself to begin that drug. I saw an endocrynoligist who also prescribed Forteo for me. I not only have osteo but severe scoleosis as well so the readings from the dexa cannot be trusted, according to the doctors. I have, however, just started on the Forteo and so far, no side effects but I don’t think I will stay on it long……just too many unknowns. I am 73 and have always exercised and am otherwise pretty healthy.
Thank you for your comments.
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January 23, 2010
Vivian,
Wow, it has been painful reading about all the tragic consequences of the drugs people have been prescribed–after all, if you can’t trust your physician, who can you trust? I’m glad I can still trust my doctor (who actually told me his own mother refused to take Fosamax because it gave her chest pains)but it was me who asked for a sample to try Actonel and Boniva because my scan showed such bad numbers.
However, in the vitamin department of our Sprouts store, I asked for something to help thinning hair and to improve skin (I am 83 years old) and the young woman suggested a product called “BioSil”. It may not have done much for my skin and hair but it turned out to be a powerhouse when I had my density last year. My doctor called and told me whatever I was doing, I should keep it up because there had been “significant improvement” in my hip. I’m almost due for this year’s scan and I hope it’s even better.
Have you heard about BioSil? I’d love a comment, if you have time. Of course, I am careful about what I eat (primarily because the two osteoporosis drugs caused severe GERD!) and I consider myself to be relatively fit, except for foot surgery six months ago that has taken a toll, but nothing interferes with how my husband and I eat. I take Bone-Up calcium with Vitamin D as well as Omega 3 and Flaxseed oil. We eat a great deal of frech veg and some fruit; meat is used as a condiment. Following your instructive book is easily done. Thanks for caring…and helping us care for ourselves!
Florence
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January 23, 2010
My doctor wanted me to try Forteo, but when I did my research and it mentioned bone cancer in rats, I said no thanks. My doctor was very upset and said I was a headed for hip fractured soon very soon. I am only 62. I was on Fosamax for 9 years and every T-score got worse. I have stopped taking the prescritions for now.
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January 23, 2010
Dear Vivian, I keep checking to see if you have responded to several of our inquiries about Garden of Life Grow Bone supplements. PLEASE let us know if this is a safe formula to be taking! You should go on Oprah – you deserve more recognition than you are getting! Bless you for caring so much!
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January 23, 2010
donna
don’t give up….keep reading everything you can about bone health.
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January 23, 2010
I just read a book Juice Lady’s guide to juicing health. by Cheri Calbom M.S. excellent book
her books says there may be a link betwwen depression and boneloss.
women who have a history of major depression have lower bone density and higher levels of cortisol a hormone related to boneloss and heart issues.
She has some great advice in her book about various aliments and how improving your diet and lifestyle can help you! See if your library has the book. It has a wealth of information.
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January 24, 2010
Marilyn,
Grow Bone is a good product.
Oprah? I don’t want to be “famous”, I want to to bring common sense back to bone health and to help with my research on natural osteoporosis solutions
January 23, 2010
Thanks for the updates
My physician prescribed Forteo and I was to take it for two years. He closely monitored my enzymes every three months. Towards the end of the 1st year alkaline phosphatase level sky rocketed and that required more investigation. I had complete bone scan that showed increased uptake in the skull area. This could have been indicative of Paget’s disease. Again I needed a skull Xray to rule this out and fortunately negative. He stopped the Forteo and since then no more muscle aches specially the calves.
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January 24, 2010
Great news, Marilyn.
January 23, 2010
Dear Vivian,
Thank you for your ongoing imformation, very much
appreciated. After several years of taking Fosamax, and Actonel, with bad digestive effects,
I now take Rocaltrol (Calcitriol) it is not a
fosfate, but I am still worried about the long term effects. It doesn’t seem to be doing me
any noticable damage at the moment, but ???
Do you have any info on this product??
Annette
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January 22, 2010
Yes, I was prescribed Forteo because I have extensive bone loss. I took it for about 6 days and my ears started ringing so loud that I couldn’t do my job. I couldn’t focus on anything and it drove me nuts. My doctor said that I was allergic to the Forteo so I stopped taking it. Wasn’t too crazy about trying it in the first place. I have had side effects with all of the osteoporsis medicines that they have prescribed. Right now I am not taking anything, but am reading your book and learning tons of information. Thank you so much.
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January 22, 2010
Ihad a vit d shortage my vit. was 7 my dr. told me my bones was so weak Icould step off a step and break a bone Iwas scare of breaking a bone and foreto but i felt like i had to take it Ihad 4 shots and had a very bad reactionto it Icall my dr. and she said it was my nerves get some pills and try again so stupid me did cause i trusted my dr. well it happen again i call my dr. and she said she has turn me over to another dr. and would not talk to me so i call the company and told them what happen and they said they had no idea what to do my dr. was suppose to tell me that but since she dismiss me they knew NOTHING i still have the side effect iworry all the time abot getting the bone cancer only the good lord has carry me this far it has been almost 2 years i run up and down step i walk 2+miles a day i take yoga i found a p.t. last year that said he wish these dr. would stop giveing allthese drugs to people and let their body heal their self ladies think long and hard before takeing any of these and never do it because you are scare learn all you can about bones and think long and hard before you take any of it I WILLBE PRAYING FOR ALL OF US MAY GOD BLESS AND HE THE BEST DR. I KNOW PAT MARTYN
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January 22, 2010
I stopped taking Fosamax several months ago. I won’t take any other drugs for my bones. I’m trying to change my diet to your 80/20 alkaline,acid formula. Will see my doctor in March. Thanks for your e-mails. I enjoy your reader’s comments.
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January 22, 2010
I just finished 15 months of Forteo. After 12 months, I had a new Dexa scan. I had gone from minus 3.9 (lumbar area) to minus 2.1 That is an incredible gain in bone density (over 40%). Because it is such a scary drug and that it is so expensive, I decided to end treatment after 15 months. my Dr. kept gtrying to get me to go the full 24 months, but I said NO! I am fearful of “rapid resorption” and plan to go on Boniva for a short period. Pleaselet me know what you think of this plan.
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January 22, 2010
i took forteo for 15 months had pains weakness in arms legs and stomach did not feel normal. i told the doctor Recknor of gainesville ga i wanted it no more. now on reclast. but he puts people on this forteo over 3 and 4 years.
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January 22, 2010
My first bone scan revealed I had osteoporosis in the femur and osteopenia of the spine. After being on Actonel for two or three years, my bone scan revealed no difference. My rheumatologist decided reclast would be a good alternative. One dose of reclast then a test a year later revealed more bone loss. I had another go around of reclast with devastating side effects. I thought I was going to die. Almost blindness for two weeks, barely able to walk, pain, etc. No more Actonel, no more Reclast, etc. I had been taking “Bone-up” in addition to “Bone Strength Formula with Ko-Act”. That’s 8 pills a day. I’m about to gag on all the pills. I’m done. The rest is up to the Good Lord. Let’s face it…it’s part of aging and it’s probably unpreventable. I’m not overweight, had (up until a couple of years ago) been very active, ate sensibly, etc. There are no answers. Signed….62 Years Old and hoping for one more year.
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January 23, 2010
After all I’ve read here and in other websites, I’m amazed these drugs are even on the market. Does that give you an idea what the FDA is doing for the American public? I’m reluctant to take any drug at all.
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January 23, 2010
Hi,
I have recently heard about Strontium, seemingly builds bone. Purchase it at the Bulk Barn. The bottle I have is called strontium 2. 2 per day. made by albi natural.Worth a shot. Read about it on the internet. Owner of bulk barn says it works based on results of her customers who have come in to tell her. Good luck, hang in there!
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January 23, 2010
Donna,
I am the same age, and my doctor scared me I was afraid to leave my house, fear of falling and breaking my hip. I think it is a natural thing boneless as we age, and I put my faith in God also, if I do break my hip, he will help the doctors repair and I will be ok for another few years or longer.
Lynn
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January 22, 2010
Dear Vivian,
I just received your book The Bone Health Revolution. My question is..I have been taking Actonel for the last 20 years. Can I stop now? I am very worried and concerned.
Sincerely,
Glenda
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January 24, 2010
Glenda,
I hope the number “20″ next to years is a typo. If it’s not, then you SHOULD stop the Actonel. Some scientists that believe in the drug are debating if it makes sense to prescribe it for more than 5 years. Imagine that!
January 22, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about all the problems that Osteoporosis can cause for you dear people. My sweet 9 year old son was diagnosed recently with Osteosarcoma and he has already lost his leg to the cancer, he is 9. Osteosarcoma is a very serious cancer and is most certainly life ending for many people. Knowing what our family has been through, I would never take something that might possibly bring about Osteosarcoma, it is a very nasty hard to fight cancer and can be very lethal. Prayers to all of you searching for a drug to help your situation. My son did not take any drugs prior to being diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in the distal right femur, his right leg was amputated above the knee in late October 2009, the fight to save him continues each day with chemotherapy.
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January 24, 2010
My prayers are with your son for his recovery and with you for your faith and strength.
January 22, 2010
I took Forteo for 10 months, the leg cramps got so bad i stopped taking forteo.
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January 22, 2010
I tried all of the medicine out there to many side effects , Ihave PAD so i have to be very careful what i take for any illness. What did they do in the old days ? when none of this medication was around?
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January 22, 2010
Unfortunately, after years of Fosamax and no improvement, I was prescribed Forteo. I took the injections and my Dexa scan showed a great improvement. I just pray I won’t have any permanent damage or develop cancer from taking the drug. What ended the prescription drugs for me was my reaction to Actenol. What a roller coaster ride I’ve been on for the past 11 years.
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January 22, 2010
My doctor has suggested that I go on Forteo; I went to an informative group meeting of his other patients hosted by a nurse-practitioner who went through the whole procedure of how to inject yourself; the benefits of the drug; the history of the drug; and THEN THE BLACK BOX WARNING (which I had already read about). No one at the meeting had done any research, it seems. THere were about 9 women there; some were already on it for several months with no side effects. BUT, I was leery from the start. That was in August of 2009; the Actonel did not help me apparently; I had a t-score of -3.7, which is not good. So my last Actonel was in September and the doc wanted me to start last fall. SO I’ve done nothing but take calcium, Vit. D, magnesium. Today I meet with him to discuss my course of action; I have lots of questions for him. But after reading many sites on Forteo, I don’t think I want to go there.
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January 22, 2010
Thanks for another terrific article , Vivian. After two years and no inprovement on fossamax my Doctor tried very hard to get me on forteo. The insurance company already did not pay for the fossamax as I was only 53 at the time. I thought I had been active enough and ate right, knew my mother and grandmother had osteoperosis but neer thought it would happen to me at least not at 51. When the doctor suggested forteo he said go home and look it up on the internet as I was a little skeptical and leary about what he was telling me. I knew if I was going to have to inject myself I wanted to be armed with as much knowledge as possible about the drug. Well after reading about forteo and finding your web site I can say I took myself off the fossamax and have been exercising and eating even better paying mush more attention to the acidity and alkalinity of the foods I eat. I go back to the doctor soon for a recheck and I am hoping since doing all of this and using some vitamins I found that my bones will be better or at least not any worse. I would love nothing better than to tell this doctor “see what I did without your pills!”
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January 24, 2010
Keep up your optimism and stick to the program, Charlotte!
January 22, 2010
I was prescribed this drug by a DO specializing in rheumatology…I was referred to him as I sustained a fall resulting in a compression fx of T-12 (I landed backwards on the metal legs of the campchair I had in its carrying case over my shoulder – not even a pathological fx). I also have had moderate-severe scoliosis since age 11 (now 60)and had 2 spinal fusions. I have ALWAYS been active..danced,swam, biked, cheer leader and have ridden horses all my life until the fall. This DO told me he was a “spokesman” for the pharmaceutical company, addressing MD’s at seminars about the benefits of Forteo, etc. When he told me I had to take a class with my “medication” before I could begin taking it, I almost dropped my drawers!!!! This man had no basis for starting me on this, did not tell me of the cost ($1040/month at Walgreens); did not tell me of any side effects or of the “black box” warnings…did say it could only be taken for 2 years and the 1st month’s Rx was free!!! I have been an RN for over 35 years…I am not stupid….I did my homework, spoke to a number of pharmacists and found your wonderful website!!!! This is such a sham…just follow the money….Phamaceutical companies need to be brought under control…Thank you for all of your great information. I share it with my peers and colleagues. And since when did ostoeporosis become a disease? It was a sign of aging when I was in nursing school in the late 60’s!! And what 60 yr old should be compared to a 30 yr old in a dexa-scan? Not me…all of this is not rocket science…thank you again for all of your great information.
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January 22, 2010
I took the first shot of Forteo and within 10 minutes had an extreme pressure in my chest, as though a brick had been placed there. It continued, I took three additional shots and when the company called me they said to discontinue use and call my Doctor. He permanently stopped the drug. The next month I continued to feel this pressure, as well as rapid heartbeats.
All of the other drugs I took gave me extreme side effects. Boniva caused such pain in my hands that I had to quit working.
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January 22, 2010
Vivian, thanks so much for your new insightful information regarding Forteo. I always read your expert findings regarding osteoporosis drugs. I truly appreciate your diligence in helping our population better understand the mystery of helpful solutions in the treatment of this common disease. Please keep the emails coming. I continue to share your program with my family and friends.
Eternally grateful,
Bea Justice-Salyers
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January 21, 2010
The situation with Forteo — Unbelievable!! Now I really do believe doctors are in the palms of the drug companies. There is no proof that incidence of fractures has declined, and more and more horrible effects are becoming evident and being reported. More and more people will be suffering these debilitating effects because this is what these drugs DO [stop old bone resorption and PREVENT NEW BONE FORMATION] — bones may be thicker, but they are brittle. Fractured bones will not knit/heal or will be very slow to heal because these drugs interfere with new bone formation. How can we stop this duping of the doctors and their pushing these drugs on us?!!!
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January 21, 2010
Dear Vivian:
I have never heard of Forteo before reading hour message. I find it very interesting and am wondering if my doctor might mention it my next visit especially since he has me off everything because of the pains I had with Fosamax and Boniva. Your are great to share your information with so many of us. Thank you very much.
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January 21, 2010
Thank you so much for sharing this info as well as all others – you’re wonderful! Truly appreciate it!
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January 21, 2010
Thank you very much for this info. My mom prescribed with this drug.nd thinking about it since a few months couldn.t decide
ai need your help for an another drug. I gave been presc. with Fosteum because of my ostrepenia. Could you tell us about fosteum pls.
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January 22, 2010
Naz,
I’ll write about Fosteum soon. So many drugs… so little time!
January 21, 2010
I took Fosamax for 12 years and then I decided to stop because of the articles I read about some people having femur fractures near the hip after being on it over 10 years. I had put off going on Forteo but when my Dexa scan was slightly worse in the hip I decided to go on it. I had previously had two compression fractures in the lumbar area in the early 2000s and was put into early menopause when I was 44 from chemotherapy 14 years ago. Chemo made my bone mass in my back worse no doubt. My endocrinologist (the third I have had) took me off of Fosamax for six months before I was to start Forteo for it to be more effective. I was on Forteo for six weeks. On Forteo I was always sleepy. I was trying to nap on my two breaks a day at work, tried to nap on my lunch break and if I was out walking on the weekend I would be so sleepy I would have to drive home and take a nap before I could continue doing anything else. I also remember being very mean and not very nice during that period. I was always totally wiped out. I never drank coffee and have never been a caffeine drinker. I started drinking so much tea to stay awake that I ended up feeling like I could not breathe or get enough oxygen and had to go to the ER after the feeling didn’t go away for two days. Apparently, the ER people felt I only had anxiety. No kidding. When I called my doctor before I went to the ER he said that was not a symptom of Forteo. That was the last time I called him and I doubt he knows I ever stopped taking it as the prescription was for a year. That was in May of 2009. I was willing to take it. I just wasn’t willing to be sleepy all the time. Having had breast cancer I wasn’t real thrilled with taking it either. At least I am not sleepy now.
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January 22, 2010
Nancy,
Your story is literally a “wake-up call”.
January 21, 2010
Vivian,
I just want to tell you that FORTEO was prescribed for me, and, Medicare approved $1000.00 a month for my nightly Forteo shots.
I REFUSED the treatments,however…primarily because of information I’ve received in e-mails from you, and, a little research of my own.
Thank you for your input.
With the Lord’s help,…I’ll be fine.
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January 21, 2010
I took FOSAMAX for about a year and developed gastro problems. Took BONIVA i.v. every 90 days…it did nothing. Tried FORTEO in Doctor’s office. Eli Lily nurse injected…I became dizzy, palpatations and my b.p. very elevated. Doc kept me in office until b.p. went down. He then called FDA and reported my reaction. I have been on Strontium Citrate for a year and will have bone density in Spring. Medicare will only pay for once a year. I exercise 5 times a week and practise yoga twice a week,I eat properly, am generally healthy except for oestoarthritis and fybromyalgia.Just beginning a course of Boswellia, Bromelain, Curcumalonga Rhizome extract, Quercetin dihydrate. Am told I should try for inflamation. I have a great deal of discomfort.
Please COMMENT. Thank you…healthy Grandma in 70’s
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January 21, 2010
I took Forteo from 2005-2007, the full two year program. After completion of the program, I was again tested for bone density. It showed a marked improvement to nearly normal bone density. After being off the drug and being tested one year later, it showed my bone density back to osteoporosis. According to the literature and my doctor, this was NOT going to happen. Needless to say, I would NEVER tell any woman to take this drug. It works while on it, and a complete failure once off of it.
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January 21, 2010
I will starting on the forteo program, wondering what should I except. thanks layne
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January 21, 2010
I will be starting to take forteo , very interested in hearing what everyone has to say who is also receiving it. Thanks layne
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January 21, 2010
I was on several drugs for osteo that didn’t work and now I am on Forteo and my wrist hurts so next month I see my doctor. I read one of the replys to skip a day so I will try that. Been on Forteo for 7 months. Thank you all that reply.
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January 21, 2010
I went to see a bone specialist. Dr. Greenspan told me that I was at risk for fractures in my hip and back. The two treatments available are Reclast and Forteo. I read all the literature on both products and I cannot bring myself to place the order. I was leaning to Forteo. What I have just read in your e-mail to is frightening. What do you suggest? I have a twin sister and she has been on Cal-Apatate for 10 years. Her bones are great! What do you suggest?
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January 21, 2010
I was amazed at how many replies there have been already, to this article! Obviously, there are thousands of us “bone piles” out there! I have had osteoporosis for many years, and have taken both Fosamax and Actonel, but suffered 4 fractures in 14 mos. even while taking those meds! So, after reading Vivian’s book, I went off all the ostoporosis meds in Nov. 2008. I’ve had several docs tell me Forteo is the only drug for me to take. Like many of the rest of you, when I researched this drug and the side effects, alarms went off in my head! I’m only 54 and have many years left to live! I’ve already had cancer once, and it was terrifying! I was blessed to have a full recovery. I don’t want to risk that again! Unfortunately, I am now recovering from another rib fracture that I got 2 wks. ago from a gentle hug from my husband! I’m very disappointed to have another fracture, since it’s been quite a few years since the last one. I just had another dexoscan last week, so will find out how the bone density has done since going off meds and just following Vivian’s food plan. I’m just hoping there hasn’t been any more loss, but obviously there has been no improvement, either! What to do? Good luck to all of you!
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January 21, 2010
I was on Forteo for the limited time–two years.My bone density became all pluses–previously all minuses. So it was a great improvement.Now I am on Boniva. No ill effects from either just pluses on my bone density.Thanks.
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January 21, 2010
I took fortego for 6 mo. continued back ache daily . stopped . have better in all ways since
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January 21, 2010
Thank you, as always for your great information. It is very hard to do all the research needed to be well-informed about our bone health. We appreciate your efforts on our behalf!
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January 21, 2010
Hi Vivian,
I was actually told by my doctor to take Forteo last year as the Actonel which I took for 2 1/2 years didn’t do much. Naturally, I refused & now I am glad.
Thanks for the informative articles.
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January 21, 2010
I had two years of treatment with this drug with fantastic results. After many years on prednisolone my bones had a very low density and I suffered three fractured vertebrae and lost an inch in height. That’s a big blow to a young man in his twenties. I have read many medical journals about the drug and many of the findings which i read suggested that the risk of bone cancer was not really that high. I’d rather risk cancer than suffer like I did. And by the way actually it is a picnic injecting youself twice a day. It’s no big deal getting it out the fridge and sticking the tiniest needle ever into your thigh. It doesn’t even hurt. If you get offered Forteo in the UK then you are very lucky because it does cost alot of money and as I understand it the Nation Health Service only prescribe it in extreme cases.
Anyway it worked for me, my bone density is much stronger and I don’t have cancer.
Remember don’t take anybody’s word for things just because they said a certain study says this and a certain study said that. For every piece of scientific research that says one thing there is a piece of research that had different findings. Also remember that all scientific research is flawed in some way eg the sample group was not large enough or did not relate to the tests being carried out or even the way in which the testing was done could be flawed. That’s why very few things are actually proven and research continues. Always look into things yourself and make up your own mind. Google Scholar and Pubmed are good places to start.
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January 23, 2010
I really liked your comments. I too have taken Forteo. I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis at age 50. The doctor put me on Forteo and I was on it for 24 months. I did pray about this suggestion before starting and did feel it was a right choice for me. Within a month after taking it my pain from the 3 spinal fractures were gone and I was feeling better. It was great! I continued for the 24 months and then put on Boniva. I took it for a year and came up with 2 more fractures and two bulging disc. I was sent to an Orthopedic surgeon and he put me in a brace before leaving his office, which I had no idea what that cost until later, Which I would of never done if I knew the cost. However, It helped me keep my back straight and taught me how to bend. I had to wear that thing for three months and wasn’t suppose to drive but had to work to pay the bills. The surgeon told me I should take off of work but that was out of the question. He also told me one of my higher disc was 50% gone and possibly in a state of collapse and two others were 25% deteriorated. I went to him for awhile and stopped the Boniva because I felt it wasn’t working for me or I wouldn’t of came up with three more fractures after a year. He told me I needed to continue withBoniva but I refused. He also told me all meds for bone lost worked by killing the cells that took bone out causing the cells that put bone in to work better but FDA determined after 5 years the meds killed not only the cells to take bone out it also killed the cells to put it back in. So I have not went back to him or taken anymore meds for this. I refuse to take anymore since I had been on them for a total of three years already. I don’t really discredit the doctors for prescribing meds but they don’t really know what will work for another person, everyone is different and something that works for one may not work for another. We have to adapt to lifestyle changes as they come and with God’s help we will get through this life and into the eternal where the pain of today will be gone forever. I have lost around two inches of height which is an aging process also. From time to time I hurt and have to readjust my activities but life goes on and death will surely come to us all someday. We all must face life with caution but fear not what tomorrow will bring and live as you can. Having the Lord on our side who can really be against us in the end! I pray to the Father and my Lord Jesus alot and have faith they will lead me. May God bless you and keep you!
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January 21, 2010
Hi Vivian,
Thanks for the info. Yikes!!!! Why would anyone take anything that might cause cancer? You are a God send for helping us find alternatives to drugs. Keep up the good work.
Sandy
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January 21, 2010
When offered Forteo, I looked at the preliminary findings. Rats, the first subjects got bone cancer. Then I found a medical note that announced that six women had been diagnosed with bone cancer just recently
In reading the journals, one physician suggested that patients limit their use of a drug to 18 months, not 2 years.
In a word, all the red flags were flying. I declined the drug.
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January 21, 2010
http://www.betterbones.com/blog/post/forteo-and-osteosarcoma-new-data.aspx
thought this might be of interest for those on the fence about taking forteo
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January 21, 2010
I broke my femur 12 months ago and was diagnosed with osteoporosis, condition of bones being especially bad around my knee replacements. When the doctor was putting in a steel plate with screws, he discovered that my bones were very soft and sponge-like and so he felt I needed the strongest drug on the market- Forteo. Yes, it comes with risks, just as all drugs do but one should always way the risk factors with the benefits and how bad your situation is as mine was pretty bad.
I got three different opinions and read a lot about bone loss. I have Vivian’s book but wish some of the claims were more scientific to be believable.
I have been on Forteo since September with NO side effects. I DO believe, for me, the risks are worth it if my bones get stronger with the Forteo,exercise and better diet.
The percentage of bone cancer in humans, as the worst side effect, is so low, extremely rare and as with all medications, there can be bad side effects so I am okay with it and I will only be on it for 2 years.
The injections, having to give myself a shot was my biggest obstacle I had to overcome but I am totally fine with it- even traveling on planes,etc. is no problem as it must be refrigerated.
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January 21, 2010
I am 28 years old and was diagnosed with osteoporsis and osteopenia when I was 21. I have been taking Forteo for 8 months now with no side effects. I have not yet had another bne density test so it is still unknown how much it is helping. My doctor prescribed it for 2 years. My insurance does pay for most of it, I have to pay $60 a month and the insurance pays for the rest. It is delivered to my house every month via overnight shipping.
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January 21, 2010
What do you think of the drug injected(IV)once a year???Thankyou
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January 22, 2010
Pretty scary stuff.
You might want to check out this blog:
http://www.sideeffects101.com/health-polls/reclast-side-effects-poll-and-discussion/
January 21, 2010
I am a 61 years old male who just completed 5500 miles on a road bicycle last year. I also have osteoporosis and broke my back in December 2009, just falling out of bed. Why Osteoporosis? I was given dilantin for over 30 years for a seizure disorder. Guess what? In 30 years no one told me that one of the side affects was osteoporosis. No one told me to take extra calcium or do weight bearing exercise. It was only a friend who told me about the osteoporosis side affect and only after I asked, did a doctor tell me osteoporosis was a side affect and that we should get you on a different drug. Only it was to late they determined I had osteoporosis.
Now they’re asking me to take Forteo and how timely was this article from Vivian. Does anyone out there know who we can trust? The Spin doctor didn’t tell me about side affects and it wasn’t until I researched the internet that I found that it had cause cancer in animals. Just think all these years our schools have tried to convince us we are from monkeys. I have a dumb question. Aren’t monkeys animals?
When I expressed my concerns about the other so called bone building drugs, the doctor only stated I had a lot of bad information. Yet he did not over any rebuttal or positive information.
At least my family doctor admitted that Fosomax does not build bone mass.
So next week I see the expert osteoporosis doctor who will try to convince me to take Forteo and will have to show him the article and ask his opinion.
Yes as we all are I am afraid of breaking my back again, this has been so painful yet I am just as afraid of the possible side affects from Forteo.
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January 21, 2010
I would like to add that my neighbor who works at a local hospital was given Forteo and in 2 years of doing the sq inj. she has completely filled in her bones.She had no side effects while doing her two years of injections Her physician was perplexed by the treatment, but it worked. she is in her early 50s.
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January 21, 2010
I have osteoporosis. Working in the dental field, my choice was not to take any of the osteoporosis medications.
Then I went to an endoconologis (sp?)and was given Forteo. The daily injections were not a problem, but after a week, my heart started racing and I was experincing headaches. I never get headaches. So I stopped Forteo and after three days, I started to feel better.
I was doing the daily shots in the morning, so after a week off Forteo, I started again only at night. Same side effects happened. Heart racing and headaches are no fun.
I also called the manufacture of Forteo to asked about the frequency of possible osteosarcoma developing and was told one (1) out of 250,000 per year develope osteosarcoma.
I called my Doctor and told her, what my side
effects were and that I discontinued the Forteo treatment.
I take approximately 1800 mgs of calcium, 1200 mgs of D3, a multi vitamin and 1,000 mgs. of magnesium daily. Exercise is also part of my life on regular basis.
Thank you for all your continued reseach and keeping us informed.
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January 21, 2010
I understand that in the “rat experiment” the animals were given several times the dose they would receive given there weight. Apparently, you have left out some details to this study. After many millions of doses by thousands of patients there has been no human cancers directly attribitable to Forteo.
However, I do have a friend that used Forteo for the 2 year period and it did not work for him.
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January 21, 2010
Hi Vivian,
Thank you for your expertise.
I just retired and now have time to try silver sneakers to work out and not be on any other medicine. I enjoyed everyone who submitted their comments. My doctors have tried to get me to take Boniva and a yearly shot. I do not want to be on medication for the rest of my life. So I will take your advice and stay away from medication that will give me any side effects. I tried to take vit C with k and that made me sick to my stomach.
Thank you
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January 21, 2010
I gave myself Forteo injections for two years. My density improved dramatically. However, two years after completing the therapy, my bone density was right back where it started. No lasting improvement, and many dollars down the drain!
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January 21, 2010
Just want to say, that is exactly what happened to me. Totally agree with you.
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January 21, 2010
My doctor is pushing me to take Forteo. He believes, it is the only way to improve bone density. After reading about the cancer issue, for now I won’t take this drug.
I don’t believe in the other drugs. Believe Forteo can improve it … but at what cost.
For now, I am not taking anything except calcium, vitamin D and exercise. I will eventually have to take a decision if my bone density is getting worst .. and it is quite bad right now.
Nothing is black and white.
Good luck to all.
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January 21, 2010
One year ago, my doctor, a specialist, perscribed Foreto to me because I had been on Foxamax for 11 years, and it was no longer helping my bones to improve. He actually got angry when I refused to comply and told me to keep taking my Foxamax. I met with my Internist, and together we agreed to do some research and come up with another plan. He also agreed to follow my case. I found this website and ordered the book, The Bone Health Revolution. As a result, I began a program of eating correctly and working out, using weight-bearing exercises. I also changed my calcium to Citracal. I will have my yearly bone dentisty test next month, and am very anxious to see the results. Will keep you posted.
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January 21, 2010
Iwas prescribed Forteo in 2006. Had fractured 2 vertabre just getting out of bed. Started taking thr Forteo shots in Nov of 2006. Took them for 1 month and had a stroke in Dec of 2006 for which they never gave me a reason. My heart was good and so was my blood pressure. Have you ever heard of this being a side effect of Forteo. My left side is paralyzed.
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January 21, 2010
My mother took Forteo for 2 years, and now is recovering from 2 broken hips and 2 hip surgeries. Each surgery left her a bit more out of touch with reality and she now requires full time care.
Great Success story…
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January 21, 2010
In 2005, I was told I had to do something about my thinning bones. I thought it was strange they were thin, but only broke my foot over 10 years before in an accident. I was very suspicious of many drugs, but my doctor seem really worried I wasn’t doing anything. I couldn’t take any of the tablet stuff (Fosomax, Evista, etc.) without feeling like I was coming down with the flu. Who wants that? Finally, the doctor suggested Forteo. A shot? Are you kidding me? I hate needles!!!! But, I read about it and listened to the doctor’s clarifications on my questions. I finally went for it. I went from 2005 to 2007. My insurance took care of the extremely high cost, but now I am wondering what did it cost me? I felt no ill effects during the time I took the drug and I’m praying nothing else will show up now or in the future. Thank you, Vivian, for your website, newsletter, and everything!! I am educating my younger sisters and sisters-in-law.
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January 21, 2010
I took fosamax for 4 1/2 years and lost 4″ in my lower spine. No waist anymore. Then ‘they’
put me on forteo for 2 years. Muscles are weak.
Then came a hip replacement and it never did right. Nerves in leg are near gone. Half numb from the knee down. I am now 76 and can still
walk slowly. I do Tai-chi. It’s easy for me and
I do enjoy it……….Carol
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January 21, 2010
When I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in ‘96, the specialist immediately put me on Forteo…3 months later I began experiencing mild chest pain and shortness of breath. My general physician had me go through a variety of heart and lung tests: all normal. She suggested I look at the Forteo and sure enough, within 72 hours of not taking it, my symptoms went away! NO DRUG on the market is passing my lips! The drug companies are using all of us as experimental rats. Exercise and diet is the course I’m on.
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February 16, 2010
I am confused! I thought Foreto was not approved until 2002 by the FDA. How did you get the drug in 1996?
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January 21, 2010
I’m a very healthy 58 year woman diagnosed with SEVERE osteoporosis. I went to Mayo clinic in AZ for a second opinion and extensive tests after the original diagnosis to see what could be causing such severe bone loss. There was nothing that could explain my condition. 3 doctors tried convincing me to take forteo with the grim prediction that I would break if I sneezed, rolled over in bed, got hugged too hard, lifted anything over 10 lbs. Being very physical and often lifting heavy bags of soil and mulch for gardening, they could not explain why I had not broken anything yet. I considered taking the drug and for a month I cried every day about putting that chemical in my body and fearful that I would break if I turned the wrong way. That was 8 months ago. I did not take the drug(even though my insurance would pay for it (and it’s VERY expensive, I have not broken any bones, I feel strong. I have changed my diet to be more alkaline, I eat 10 prunes daily (which has been shown to be a natural way to increase bone..google “osteoporosis and prunes” to read the study) and will have another bone density in 4 months. Regardeless of what that test reveals, I WILL NOT be a guinea pig for the drug companies and will continue with my diet and exercise and positive thinking to remain strong and healthy.
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January 21, 2010
I appreciate your sharing knowledge with all of us andrespect your evaluations. I was on Fosamax for 15 years and after loose teeth, severe acid reflux, decided to discontinue this drug – a little late to be cautious, but do read your letter closely and follow your recommendations.
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January 21, 2010
I was put on “Forteo” when I was diagnose with Osteo. I didn’t last very long because from the very beginning I started having leg cramps and was unable to sleep at night. Then I was put on Boniva (once a month). Landed in the hospital because I was having a heart attack when in reality it was heartburn cause by the Boniva. Right now I take “Evista” but not all the time due to the fact it may cause blood clogs. No matter what you take all these medications have the utmost side effects and sometimes wonder if they really work at all. One year your bone density will improve and the next it’s down again.
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January 22, 2010
Exactly right! Good results with synthetic drugs are, if any and at best, only temporary. Drugs work against normal body processes.
January 21, 2010
I have had two broken femurs and a broken vertebrae in a 5-month period due to long-term Fosamax use. I am full of titanium rods and screws. I no longer trust these drugs. It was prescribed after a bone density scan showed MILD osteopenia. I may never have good bones again, but I am trying with calcium, vitamin D3 and walking when I can. I still use a cane….I cannot see how adding a cancer-causing agent to my chalk like bones would be a good thing!!
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January 21, 2010
I have been told to take Forteo. The doctor sells this $800.00 a month as I have been told with the help of insurance. I have no intention of giving myself a shot everyday. The side effects of this Osteoporsis drugs are numerous and extremely scary to me. I took Reclast for one year and now are having some teeth problems, not sure it is the drug, but my bone density test was not better after the drug. I have decided to take matters into my own hands with learning the proper excercises I can do at home through a Physical Therapist, which you insurance may cover. I’ve added foods to my diet that are important and do a tremendous amount of walking. May I add, I am a very big believer in my higher power and “ANGELS”. What I ask for and what is “THEE MOST” important thing a person needs, is “GOOD HEALTH” without drugs. This is what I am working towards, and am driven to achieve. All drugs have side effects that can be “MORE DANGEROUS” then the original problem. Go for it, do it on you own, I sure am trying. Have a beautiful day, remeber to eat right and “EXERCISE”. “God Bless”……
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January 21, 2010
I had a femoral neck fracture a year ago (3 pins were used instead of a hip replacement) which was not fully healing after 9 months. Bone just reached a point where it stopped growing so my orthopedic surgeon prescribed Forteo since it had been used in pelvic fractures. I’m 57 and have slight osteopenia. Believe me, I was hopping around on one leg for 4 months because I was on non weight-bearing status so my bones are pretty stong and I’ve studied ballet all my life so I’m hardly the usual candidate for Forteo. He advised me to stay on the drug only two months – that would be enough to see the effect and he didn’t want any more risk of the osteosarcoma than necessary. Well the fracture closed and the hardware was removed last month so now time will tell if the bone is in good shape. I didn’t mind the injections but I had two months of constant flu-like symptoms and vertigo,my shoulders and arms were and still are contantly in pain and weak but of course ” Hmmmm could be a symptom, but we don’t know” was the response. After a month I told him I was going off because of the way I felt but he convinced me to cut down to injections every other day. If I have to have a hip replacement after all I won’t be thrilled at having been exposed to possible risk factors.
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January 21, 2010
Dear Vivian,
Loved your Mission Impossible Statement. It is good to have some laughs about this serious subject. Thanks for the moral boosters.
Carole
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January 21, 2010
I took Actonel and then Fosamax for a total of 3 years and some bones improved slightly during year three but the mid spine got steadily worse. During that time I went to the gym almost daily. I am now on my eighth month of Forteo. I have headaches and sleep problems but have had these problems for twenty years so I don’t think they’re related tot he Forteo. I have no aches or pains.
I just recently developed the early stages of kidney stones. My specialist insists it has nothing to do with the Forteo. My Primary physician said I had been taking too much Vitamin D (2,500 / day) and so I stopped the Vitamin D a month ago but still have cloudy urine from calcium crystals (results of urine analysis) which is the early sign of kidney stones I’m referring to so I’m not sure if the damage from the Vitamin D was irreparable, or if the kidney problem has something to do with the Forteo I am taking. On the net many women have been helped by Forteo but I didn’t know it hadn’t been fully tested.
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January 21, 2010
Nice to hear about Vit.D I had to take D3-2000IU a day. After 5.5 month I had everything-pelvic colapsed (that feeling)very high cholesterol and high blood-pressure.Than checked and have osteoarchritis- My doctor said he never knew about vit.D’s I also started reading – Vit.D3 is NOT a vit.But- A STEROID . I DO HAVE HYPERTHYROID and I was in soo much pain -could not walk and if with a cane. It has taken me now about a year and feel okay. For the pain if I have any I take Turmeric just a teaspoon on taost with avocado and sometimes green tea and ginger.Like Vivian’s book but have not finish it.I take a 1000mg of vit.C always and I have not been sick (besides the Vit.D3 or should I use the word this steroid?) never took any tablets as very rare a Panamax. (Panadol without the coating ) Love to read more comments.
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January 21, 2010
Vivian – I have been taking Garden of Life Grow Bone supplements which entails 5 raw calcium pills and 3 bone growth factor pills each day. Have you heard about this and, if so – will you PLEASE give me your feedback? I want to know if I’m doing the right thing! I love your work! Thank you, Marilyn
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January 21, 2010
I, too, am taking the Garden of Life Grow Bone formula. In her book Vivian is down on strontium so I’m wondering if I should stop and just give the 80/20 diet a chance to work with increased exercise. The endocrinologist wants me to do the forteo, because of the rapidity I am losing bone density in my lower spine. He said he’d hate to see the last 20 years of my life be curved over and fracturing right and left. I have never broken any bones.I feel great. I am petite build. Right now I prefer to see if I break something before trying medication. I do cardio kick class 3X weekly. The endocrinologist said that low impact exercise like walking,treadmill, tennis, kick class are what builds bone. He said weight-bearing exercise doesn’t build bone! That’s the first I heard that! How much impact can I do for my lower spine?
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January 21, 2010
i too am taking the grow bone supplements and would love your feedback on their product.
thank you.
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January 22, 2010
I would be cautious using AlgaeCal from New Chapter or Garden of Life.
AT BEST it is calcium carbonate from the algae but it may be worse.
I don’t think that enough studies were done on AlgaeCal.
Don’t know if it is safe to take strontium citrate. If unsure, stay away. Having said that, I am not surprised that the big pharma’s want to bad mouth about strontium citrate so that they can promote the drug strontium ranelate.
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January 21, 2010
My mother was bed ridden with multiple spinal fractures and was put on
Forteo about 3 months ago. I told my parents about the dangers of being on it, but was asked to keep out of it because they needed something and this was the only option left for her. My mother is doing well on it so far. She is getting out of house just recently to go the the stores. I never thought I’d see that again. I do not know what the future holds for her but she has gotten a little quality of life back. She needs a walker and pain meds and has shrunk a lot, but she is so happy to be able to get around a little again. I don’t know how long she is planning to stay on it.
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January 21, 2010
After reading all the comments posted after this article as well as ALL of Vivian’s articles, I am left wondering –What the hell is going on with these Doctors who continually push these drugs without doing any research on their own??? If they did, they would certainly become aware of the dangers because the info is readily out there, from a variety of sources. In my own experience, because of low bone density, my Dr. pushed Fosomax for years. Frankly, I refuse drugs. I refuse to take another bone density test also. Unfortunately, you can’t get a bone test without a Drs. note and then they use the results to try to scare you into taking this poisen. WAKE-UP, DOCTORS! YOUR PATIENTS ARE TAKING RESPONSIBILTY FOR THEIR HEALTH AND ARE ENTITLED TO MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS. THE RELATIONSHIP YOU HAVE WITH YOUR PATIENTS SHOULD BE OF MUTUAL RESPECT AND DIALOGUE. STOP TREATING YOUR PATIENTS LIKE IGNORANT SHEEP.
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January 21, 2010
Doctors want money, they are not our loved ones who care. It is scary to think we need to depend on them but we do. Drugs are their answers, my doctor made it sound like this was life threatning, it is not good to have this, but I strongly believe we can do it depending on the persons needs, without drugs. At least I will try. I agree with you so much. If one listens to drug advertisements on TV, it is funnier then a sit com, the side effects can make one laugh. Good luck….
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January 22, 2010
Marleen,
I agree with you… but those TV ads are “tragi-comic”. Some even mention “death” as a possible side-effect. How numb do they think the public is?
January 21, 2010
Thank you for this… I had not heard of Forteo. I’m wondering about Algae-Cal and Strontium… one prescribes 5 mg of Strontium and the other 680 mg… that’s quite a difference! When I asked about it, I was told there is not sufficient evidence to know if too much strontium can do harm later? Any advice as to how to heal a fracture in the foot? Blessings
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January 22, 2010
Avoid or reduce the dosage of calcium when healing/nursing a fracture as calcium slows down the recovery. Silicon (e.g. BioSil) may help heal fractures. Do your own research.
My two cents.
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January 22, 2010
Please refer to my comments on AlgaeCal in this thread.
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January 21, 2010
I am 50 and have low bone density (-2.8). What really made me angry (and helped me make my decision) was when my Doctor at Medical Associates in Menomonee Falls, WI actually became visibly upset and/or annoyed because I did some research on the drugs he was prescribing (Osteoclast and Forteo). He actually told me that the Mayo Clinic is a bad source of information and that I should dismiss anything I read there. Needless to say, I no longer see that particular Doctor (whose name I’d like to give – but because I’m too nice, wont).
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January 22, 2010
John,
You were prescribed Forteo with a T-score of -2.8? That alone is a good reason to stop seeing the doctor that worships ignorance!
January 21, 2010
May the good Lord continue to Bless you with wisdom in helping others with our Osteroporosis. Many thanks go out to you. m
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January 21, 2010
Forteo 12 month ,severe muscle pain till today and that was over 2 years ago. complains, were ignored by the Dr.
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January 21, 2010
After being told that I was at risk for spontaneous fracture, I was persuaded to try Forteo (couldn’t tolerate Fosamax). It was OK for about 4 months, but then I developed many symptoms which by 6 months became intolerable: joint pain, muscle loss, weakness, sleep problems, headaches, fatigue, and severe nausea, just to name a few. My husband googled Forteo and found them all listed as potential side effects. Although my doctor did not believe Forteo was the cause, I stopped it and after 2 months my symptoms are gone.
I would never take this drug again. In fact, you make a good point that not enough is understood about the condition or any of the drugs that are prescribed for it. It is crazy to take a chance on more self created problems due to taking any of them. I am trying the alkalizing diet. It makes sense, can’t hurt and certainly won’t cause osteosarcoma.
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January 22, 2010
Amen!
January 21, 2010
i was suggested to start forteo last year and i have not done so. i am not sure what to do this time over 4 years ago it was suggested i do fosamax and i immediately began that therapy. in 05 and 08 i had 2 very serious fractures but i am also sure that someone else would have suffferd something if they fell as i.on my home this past july i stopped the fosamax. at this time i may be playing russian roulette but i am not convinced any of this drugs truly work
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January 21, 2010
eeegads I’d rather be treated like a terrorist. they get read their rights, and can have a lawyer present (even waterboarding would be preferable). this would be much better than the potential dangers of forteo and the stress with not knowing what was happening. Hard to believe that people wouldn’t choose your program first. what ever happened to “first do no harm”. thanks for your dedication. gerri
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January 21, 2010
My gyn doctor was pushing Forteo. ( I felt she was getting a kick back from the drug company) I used Forteo for 3 months. Besides being very costly it made every joint in my body ache. I did not feel good and after I stopped using Forteo, it took another 3 or 4 months to feel good again. That drug is dangerous and should not be used. I went back to taking calcium and Omega and yoga.
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January 21, 2010
I was given Forteo and was told it was the god standard in bone loss drugs.
I used the product for almost a year, did not like the side effects and stopped.
I enrolled in a physical therapy program and did very well and now onto fitness.
I have been told there is no eveidence if my boe density improved do to forteo or my extra activity. I have improved.
Do not think I would use the drug again, do to the side effects, will keep on exercising and eating right.
Thanks for all your updates.
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January 21, 2010
My doctor recommended using forteo and also reclast infusion. I said I would consider but wanted to do some reading first. After finding your website and learning more, I told the doctor thanks but no thanks. I have fibromyalgia so I don’t need anymore issues.
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January 22, 2010
Smart!
January 22, 2010
Fibromyalgia may be a result of vitamin D deficiency. It may be a good idea to do a blood test on vitamin D if you have not already done so.
A few of the healthcare professionals (not M.D.’s) take 4,000 to 5,000 IU of D daily in the winter. 1,000 I.U. may not be enough.
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January 21, 2010
On two occasions my doctor tried to convince me to use Forteo, saying “If you fall, that’s the end of you.” Being overly susceptible to suggestion, I was frightened for three months. But I did say no each time. He also said he had been trying to get his mother, in her nineties, to take it and she refused. Under his breath he said, “Stupid old bitch.”
I was told $12,000 for two years, training at the local hospital, and financial help available. I talked with my pharmacist about my suspicions, which he agreed with. The drug company wants a longer study, hence the push for new users. The scary words provided to doctors by same company. If financial help is available and insurance doesn’t pay for it, then drug company is providing it, which to me signals a back door way of getting a longer study.
At my last appointment I told my doctor he shouldn’t make remarks that put ideas in our head that scare us. At an earlier appointment he said his mother was now taking Forteo and is so happy.
When such things happen over and over with various doctors over many years, I do my own investigation before saying yes. My source is Public Citizen, a public advocacy group. They say no new drug, except for an exceptional case, until seven years after it is on the market because that is when side effects start showing up.
Needless to say, my doctor doesn’t care for my not being meek and submissive. Or for me, probably.
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January 21, 2010
i have kevin trdeau’s book debt cures he also has in there that fda gets paid big bucks so they allow anything to get out their they used to wait seven years make sure the products were safe no longer our problems are greed i was diagnosed with breast cancer her2 protein wanted me to take hercepitin and chemo and radiation payout $20,000 for chemo 4,000 radiation not sure on hercepitin but i went online and found a lot of bad i prayed god would take the cancer and everything bad out so when i went for 3 surgery cancer gone and her2 protein gone cannot totaly trust doctors beware it’s more money hard to find a doctor who has faith in god and not man. jesus died on the cross for our sins deseaes debts and our souls so we can be saved believe on him and his healing power and that is how i was healed reading his healing scriptures and believing in your heart and speaking it.i take natural products to help for my vitamins and minerals vemma everything you need liquid so starts working immediatly pills you loose %10
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January 22, 2010
Unbelievable!
January 21, 2010
I was started on Forteo – and daily injected myself for one year. At the end of the year, I was given a bone density test: my increase in bone density was 0.04%. It seemed excessively expensive for such a small percentage of help.
Personally, I would not recommend this treatment.
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January 21, 2010
Before I read the 4TO information, I was thinking how you have become our secret agent, but more like a Guardian Bone Angel. The fact that you investigate products in order to help others. It is amazing how people like you make such a big difference in our lives. Thanks, Marjorie
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January 21, 2010
I was diagnosed last year (age 54) with SEVERE osteoporosis (compared to the bones of an average 80 year old) and started Forteo injections. 8 months later I was rushed to the hospital with excruciating pain and it was discovered I had five kidney stones (first time I had ever had them and I was told it was probably due to the Forteo). I had a lot of hair loss also. But I kept using the drug for a year and then had another bone density and my bone mass had improved 10%. I chose to stop taking the medication but was happy that I was moved to the osteopenia stage. As of now, I’m glad I took the medication because it did improve my bones, but I do worry about what the future holds from being on it for a year. My doctor prescribed Evista for now but I took it for three days and had numbness on the right side of my head that really concerned me so I stopped it immediately (stroke is a side effect of Evista so I was really concerned about that). So for now I’m just taking my calcuim and Vitamin D and trying to eat better and exercise. And my hair has grown back!
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January 21, 2010
Thank you so much for your very informative email.
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January 21, 2010
I used forteo from FEB. THROUGH OCT. There was no change in bone density,but there was a huge change in my bank account. Because of the type of drug ,insurance does not pay a dime. Eli Lilly has no program assistance either. If cancer doesn’t get you, bankruptcy will.
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January 27, 2010
Eli Lily DOES have an assistance program!! I’ve been on Forteo for over a year and get a regular Fed-Ex shipment every month (FREE OF CHARGE).
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January 21, 2010
Vivian: I don’t remember the name of the drug but my former doctor prescribed an injectable that was from salmon! I tried it once and told him I was not going to take it anymore, that I was going to watch my acid/alkaline intake, exercise more and forget medications for my osteopenia. Sorry I can’t remember the name of the drug but it was definitely injectable and from salmon. Margie
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January 22, 2010
Margie,
It’s salmon calcitonin, sold with the brand name Miacalcin.
January 21, 2010
I have osteoporosis, and had been using Fosamax, Actonel etc. but had stomach problems so I took Forteo for two years. In the 16th month when taking the drug I broke my femur. I don,t see how any of these drugs have really changed my condition. My doctor wants me to go back on Forteo but I cannot afford it so he has put me on Boniva. I do not like to take these meds. but when your doctors tell you its your best hope, how do you argue?
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January 22, 2010
Janice,
No sense in arguing.
Here’s what you can do:
1) Research
2) Learn
3) Analyze
4) Decide
Then you’ll know you made your own educated decision about your bone health.
January 22, 2010
I would add one more solution.
CHANGE DOCTOR
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January 21, 2010
Vivian,
Thank you so much for sharing the information about Forteo. I had a very good friend who had osteosarcoma and was gone in 2 years after multiple expensive treatments. Just knowing that Forteo caused this in “rats” is enough for me to never take it! Osteosarcoma as any cancer, is a horrible, quickly debilitating disease.
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January 21, 2010
I was prescribed Forteo just recently and have decided that I don’t want to take it because of the bone cancer issue. You see, I’ve already been down the path of a cancer diagnosis, breast cancer, so would I dare choose to have another type of cancer???!!!??? My dr has used scare tactics to try to get me to make the decision but I haven’t fallen for it.
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January 21, 2010
iWAS PRESCRIBED FORTEO INJECTIONS IN 2007,AFTER 2 MONTHS OF INJECTING MYSELF I SIOPPED.I FELT REALY ILL WITH TERRIBLE HEADACHES A CONSTANT FEVER AND I DEVELOPED A PROBLEM WITH MY NECK WHICH MAKES TURNING MY HEAD VERY PAINFUL STILL>BEFORE THESE INJECTIONS ALTHOUGH I HAVE SEVERE OSTEOPOROSIS I DID FEEL WELL BUT SINCE 2007 I HAVE FELT UNDER PAR.I HAVE STOPPED ALL MEDICATION AND DO NOT INTEND TO RESUME.
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January 21, 2010
Tell me about Evista
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January 21, 2010
I took Evista for 5 years because I had borderline breast cancer. It changed my breast mass and I had no more lumps. Am not sure how much it did for my bones, as I have osteoporsis. Tried fosomax and it helped the pain in my bones, but am dealing with hives so have stopped. Now looking at Algae-Cal and Strontium…
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January 21, 2010
I took Evista as well, in a test program. It caused hot flashes. That tells me it is working on the hormones–not good. Plus, when I developed pain, aching and fullness in my legs, they dismissed me from the program. Another side effect–blood clots. That company never checked up on me, after dismissing me.
I wouldn’t take this or any other drug for osteoporosis.
Think about it. If you are small boned, you probably never had thick heavy bones. There is no way of knowing that, without having a bone density test at a much earlier age. You don’t see these drug companies checking younger small boned people. My thought is, it is just another big money maker for big business drug companies. These meds all have serious side effects. Let’s be self thinkers people.
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January 22, 2010
I’ll write in great detail about Evista in the near future… stay tuned!
January 21, 2010
Thanks for this new information Vivian, and for your clever “Mission Impossible” scenario.
I am doing my best to follow your 80/20 eating regime, so am not interested in any form of medication. What a choice, osteoporosis or sarcoma! Not to mention the rounds of chemotherapy, radium, surgery etc for those people unfortunate to develop a sarcoma.
How is it OK to prescribe a medication, not knowing the modus operandi of same, yet many herbs which have demonstrated empirically over the centuries, that they are beneficial for a particular health problem, are forbidden to be marketed or sold? Doesn’t seem right, does it?
Nancy
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January 21, 2010
I was asked if I would take injections for 2 years as I tried Fosomax years ago and I stopped taking it after just two tablets. The headaches I had were so severe and I felt extremely ill. Since then I have refused drugs. My bone loss in my spine is – 4 and my consultant is very worried about me.
My back became worse last year because I tore both back muscles and my consultant said that the muscles feed the bones with calcium and with them not working, my bone loss for that year was worse than normal.
I don’t know what to do!!! I am so scared of breaking a bone in my back. I have your book and have bought a treadmill to make sure I do at least 20 mins of walking per day.
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January 22, 2010
Sandra,
You DO know what to do…don’t get scared… and follow the Save Our Bones Program you already have. Believe in YOURSELF and believe in your BONES.
January 24, 2010
Can a book be purchased. Save Our Bones Program?
Can you please send me an email letting me know where it can be purchased, if possible.
thank you
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January 21, 2010
When you have chronic kidney disease and osteoporosis, it is the only medication you can take that will not metabolize in your kidneys. All medications have risks, but Forteo for some have been successful. In the past I had numerous frequent pathologic fx’s, now my bone density is increasing and my fx’s are showing signs of calcification.
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January 21, 2010
I have just finished my 2 years of Forteo. I am suffering from muscle weakness, especially in my upper legs and thighs. If I had it to do over again, I would NOT take Forteo.
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January 21, 2010
hello Vivian
Thank you for the interesting article but this is not for me. I don’t want to play russian roulette with my life. I have enough health worries with having to worry about more. Those scientists show stop trying to play God. As for using those drugs on animals, I don’t approve of that either. They should try it on themselves first and stop using the rest of us as guinea pigs.
have a nice day
Marysia
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January 21, 2010
My quadriplegic daughter, told after her wreck in 2003 that she would never move or feel from neck down and never breathe without a ventilator. that was until her first muscle twitch 2 years later. no one told us that this was possible, but when she was 21, she was diagnosed with sever osteoporosis with a t score of -4.5 after fighting for years to get strong enough to take her first step since her accident. a doctor told her to “sit down and never get up” because there was nothing anybody could do for her. she refused to roll over and die. she was prescribed forteo by another doctor. after 2 years, her osteoporosis improved anyway, against all odds, and now her t score is -2.5. that might not be alot, but when you’re told that your bones will eventually turn to mush, that is something. she is now walking with a walker. something the doctors never thought she would be able to do as her neck was broken in 14 places with the front shattered into pieces and her spinal cord was outside the spinal column in the shape of a C. so, when you’re desperate, you will try that last resort. i don’t know what tomorrow holds, but i do know Who holds our future.
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January 22, 2010
What unbelievable courage and faith your daughter and you are showing!
January 21, 2010
Hey Vivian thankyou for yr time and wonderful info,when are drug companies going too develope a safe medication for us too take?
Regards Stephen.x
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January 21, 2010
i have been diagnosed but i’m 56 of course my bones are not going to be what they used to be
i don’t even take extra calcium – i’m just scared that i might increase the calcium in my blood – i just try to keep active and eat a good diet – the side effects of these medicines are scarier than the so called disease , it’s scary to hear abot people having sponteneuos fractures, i’m just wondering whether these incident are related to a different kind of disease and the doctors are just calling it osteoporosis – could they be due to brittle bone disease ?
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January 22, 2010
Sonia,
Spontaneous fractures, especially of large bones like the femur, have been observed after long-term bisphosphonate therapy because bones become so brittle and dried up that they crack.
January 21, 2010
Yes. I was on Forteo for 14 months. I had a spontaneous Femur fracture caused by being on Fosamax for 10 years, It wouldn’t heal at all for almost a year so I was put on Forteo injections and after a year , my leg was healed.Hope it doesn’t have any bad side effects, but it did the trick.
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January 21, 2010
After 13 yrs on Fosamax without a rest period being recommended, I suffered a spontaneous fracture of the left femur, mid-shaft, low energy, now in its 7th month of a non-union. I am not able to work and use a walker. I do not want to use Forteo, however, I cannot use bisphosphonates. Evista is not going to make this bone heal. I have to have a re-rodding done soon. Yes, I will use Forteo because i am becoming an invalid. It is very very expensive. Would love for Vivian’s plan to help the non-union , but I am losing too much time.I cannot use energy being angry at physicians and pharmaceutical houses, I wish I didnt have to depend on them , facing reality, the femur has to be in a union.
Thanks Tammy for your encouragement.
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January 22, 2010
These drugs will not help your bones heal. In fact, they slow or prevent healing because they interfere with new bone growth. There has to be new bone growth for the bones to knit together. Your taking Fosamax has prevented new bone formation for a long time. These drugs also prevent old bone removal to make room for new bone. This makes the bones thicker, but BRITTLE. Which would you rather hang on to — a green, flexible branch 6 or 8 inches around or a dead, brittle branch 12 inches around? Forteo will not help your bones knit together.
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January 21, 2010
I took Forteo for 3 weeks this past June. I became VERY lethargic and weak. My husband found me passed out & I was rushed to the hospital – the hospital personnel tested me for a heart attack, diabetic shook, etc. as it appeared to be a life threatening situation – They were NEVER able to absolutely ascertain what had happened. After 3 weeks in the hospital, my cardiologist ran some tests and advised that he thought my blood calcium had gotten much too high and he advised that I never take Forteo again – I haven’t-!!
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January 21, 2010
do you have any articles on hair loss and Protos. I took it for just over 1 yr and have significant hair loss. The doctors medical wed site showed research and articles linking Prtotos to hair loss. There is no warnings and in Australia it is the medication of the moment for bone loss. I have thrown mine out. my doctor has reported it to the drug reporting agency here, but they keep selling it.
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January 21, 2010
A dermatologist recommended Biotin Forte for hair loss. It has 5 mg. of biotin. I stopped loosing hair almost immmediately and within 3 months realized my hair thicker. It worked for me. I continue to take one a day.
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January 21, 2010
I will not take Drugs for my Ostoporosis. I think there are too many side effects, and what will this do to our bones in the futures, as we so not know how they work !
That said, Vitamin K-2, gives me leg cramps which NO Body can explain either!!!
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January 22, 2010
Magnesium (tablets) may help with your leg cramps. I used to get them (and restless leg syndrome). I also take 1 tbsp. of blackstrap molasses almost every day. I add it to my plain yogurt and fruit and my smoothies and often take it by itself. (yum) Hope this helps.
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January 25, 2010
I,too, suffered from leg cramps. I started taking two (250mg.) of magnesium, along with one Vit. 6 every evening before bedtime and my RLS completely disappeared. I do not go to bed without these two vitamins. Hope it works for you too.
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January 21, 2010
Forteo hasn’t been prescribed for me yet but I certainly wouldn’t take it.
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January 21, 2010
Not for me ether! Who would want to take something that would cause cancer.
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January 21, 2010
After two years on Forteo, it was discovered that I had such discoloration in my esophagus that the doctor thought I had Barrett’s esophagus. Before that, I had severe stage four ulcers in my esophagus. I vomited up “coffee grounds” just before the ulcers were discovered. Despite this finding, my doctor kept me on the Forteo. I just refused a round of Reclast. Another drug, Denosumab is now being approved, but I have decided not to take it.
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January 21, 2010
The doctors wanted me to try it years ago….I said NO, because of the bone cancer and the doctor was not happy with me!
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January 21, 2010
Very questionable. It is
not anything I would try.
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January 21, 2010
Not for me!!!
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January 21, 2010
I took Fortego shots for about 5-6 months in 06.I didn’t feel good so I stopped taking them.Then at the end of 06 through the beginning of 08 I had 12 compressed fractures of the vertabrae.I did not fall. I would wake up in the bed with them sometimes 2.In 07 I was practially bedridden.My body had no Vitamin D.I had another fracture in Dec of 08 but it was an old fracture that fractured again.I had tried another form of osteoporis medication about a month before. As of now I will NOT use any form
osteoporis medication! All of my fractures were treated with the cement procedures. I fell blessed that I can walk . I still have some pain that is controlled with a mild pain medication.
Thank you .
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