A very seldom mentioned effect of bisphosphonates (drugs such as Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva) is that these drugs block very important metabolic pathways. Even if you never took bisphosphonates, you will benefit greatly from using this message to improve your health. Perhaps this information is not often brought to light because of its complexity, but I consider this information extremely valuable and would like to share it with you. So let’s get started…
Bishposphonates can be catalogued as nitrogenous and non-nitrogenous; the former are the most widely prescribed for treating osteoporosis. Like statins – drugs used to lower blood cholesterol levels - nitrogenous bisphosphonates begin their action on bone metabolism by blocking the enzyme farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS) which is involved in the mevalonate pathway (also called the HMG-CoA reductase pathway). I’d like to point out here that while statins disrupt the mevalonate pathway to stop cholesterol synthesis, they do not bind to bone surfaces.
Subsequent inhibited steps of the mevalonate pathway result in osteoclasts that lack a ruffled border and are therefore unable to resorb bone. Bone resorption is necessary for new bone deposition, thus forming healthier and “younger” bone. FPPS in turn forms another enzyme, farnesyl diphosphate (FPP). The latter is an important catalyzer for the production of ubiquinone, also recognized as CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10).
In the year 2000, scientists at the Merck Research Laboratories observed the effect of bisphosphonates on laboratory rats, providing the first data of in vivo evidence that these drugs do have an effect on the mevalonate pathway disruption on osteoclast activity. This was published in the Endocrinology Journal, and a few years later, another study was published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry authored by Yan Ling and team, confirming that bisphosphonates are “potent inhibitors of FPPS” and that “FPPS catalyzes the synthesis of farnesyl disphosphate (FPP), an important precursor of sterols, dolichols, ubiquinones, and prenylated proteins.”
In short, bisphosphonates interfere with the production of CoQ10 (ubiquinone), resulting in a potential deficiency that could be damaging. That’s because CoQ10 is an essential fat-soluble vitamin-like antioxidant that is present in practically all cell membranes (thus its name ubiquinone), and is involved in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary usable energy form by the cell’s mitochondria – the cell’s “power-house” – needed by the cells to perform their tasks.
CoQ10 has many important functions in the body. Once converted into ubiquinol, it operates as an antioxidant on its own and in synergy with Vitamin E, another very important antioxidant. There are several studies that show other benefits of CoQ10 ranging from positive results on cardiac health and endurance training, cancer, diabetes, periodontal disease, and neurological conditions. Further scientific studies need to be done before definite conclusions can be reached, including data interpretation on blood and tissue levels, but common sense would dictate that low levels of CoQ10 is not a desirable condition for anyone.
One important and still unanswered question is the possible link between a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation (irregular and rapid heartbeat) – a debated possible side effect of bisphosphonates – and low levels of CoQ10 caused by the drugs.
The highest concentrations of CoQ10 in the body are found in organs that require the most energy to function properly such as the heart, the lungs, the kidneys, and the liver. Unfortunately, normal ubiquinone production decreases with age and while it is present in some foods – mainly fish, fish oils, organ meats and whole grains – the amounts needed are greater than what can be obtained from those sources. It is estimated that a normal dietary intake of CoQ10 is around 10 mg/day of coenzyme. Also, age seems to be a factor in a decreased capacity of converting ubiquinone into ubiquinol.
So what should you do about this, you might ask? Here are some action steps:
- Since foods have low levels of CoQ10, you should take a daily CoQ10 supplement. This applies even if you are not taking bisphosphonates or statins, and especially if you took them in the past.
- CoQ10 supplements are widely available and come in two forms: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. Ubiquinol is the most usable and beneficial form of CoQ10. Taking 50 mg. of ubiquinol once a day is an excellent supplemental dosage.
- It’s important you get them in gelatin capsule form. Researchers at the State University Hospital in Copenhagen, who have extensively researched CoQ10, recommend it in a soft gelatin capsule for optimal bioavailability. The same study conducted at the hospital, found that powder and tablet forms of the supplement had practically no effect on increasing its blood levels.
- Here’s the best quality and most affordable supplement I recommend and take myself: UBIQUINOL 50 mg (Click Here).
So there you have it. Now you know a well kept secret about CoQ10 and osteoporosis drugs. And you also know what you can do to benefit from the amazing energy and vitality it offers.
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April 24, 2009
Hello Vivian,
It was nice to hear from you again, and thank you for your help. I stopped the Actonel a good few months ago based on your emails to me, but have yet to buy the book.
Thank you for all the information you give us, and for caring.
April 24, 2009
Thanks for the information on CoQ-10. It was nice hearing from you again.
April 23, 2009
Thanks for helping us stay informed.
April 23, 2009
Vivian, Thank you so very much for this informative article. It’s a big help as I’ve been looking into Co Q 10 supplementation for my husband who is on statin drugs for cardiovascular disease. Your article is very timely for both of us. Thank you for sending it. I learn so much from you & truly appreciate all you do for us.
April 23, 2009
Dear Vivian,
I always look forward to your lastest research articles. Also, your book is a reference manual for me. Thank you so much for all you do for us.
April 23, 2009
Hi Vivian,
Thank you for the latest information, it is of great help.
I am enjoying your book and find it most helful!
April 22, 2009
I am also interested in what you think of Strontium.
I went to a new GYN because He said he had been specializing in bone therapy for 20 years. He now has me on Bio Identical therapy via a cream hand mixed for me which I rub into my thighs 2/day. Will this do it???
April 22, 2009
Vivian, I purchased your book and find it very informative! What are your thoughts on the supplement, Strontium?? I do take CoEnzyme Q10. I was on Fosomax for 5 years and Actonel for 5 years and still have dangerously low bone density. I do weight training 4-5 days a week, Pilates twice a week and 10,000 steps a day. I sure am trying!
April 22, 2009
Hello Vivian, thanks for your email today read your book and still refer back to it on many occacasions.just to jog my memory I have ordered your suggested CQ-10
for our health and bones. you are a God send to us women that have this problem
and I wish you nothing but the best and a long life in your dedication to help others. Sincerely and my gratitude always Barbara Houser
April 22, 2009
Thank you ….I just keep learning from you and the commendts from others..
April 22, 2009
I’m glad you mentioned CoQ10. I have been taking it for the past 21 years and wouldn’t want to be without it. I am 64 years old and have incredible energy, partly because of the CoQ10. Lately, I’ve been taking Ubiquinol (gel cap form) which I get from Swanson Health Products. Theirs is excellent and a MUCH better price even considering the “giant sale” offered by the company you mention. (I take 200 mg. daily.) Incidentally, 200 to 300 mg. daily will give you results that you can’t get with only 50 mg. a day.
April 22, 2009
Thank you again for your latest information on CoQ10. Anyone taking Statin drugs should take co enzyme Q10 as statins block the production of the molecule ‘mevalonate’ which is the essential precursor to both cholesterol and CoQ10 production. Interesting annual worldwide sales of statins top £60 billion! Will add CoQ10 to my intake. In the UK we have had news coverage revealing that the NHS is considering prescribing statins to all over 50s in the UK.! It is up to us as individuals to gather as much information we can regarding drugs perscribed and make a sensible decision. The only people benefiting from high drug use are the one with shares in the pharmaceutical companies.
Interesting reading everyones comments.
Patricia – Devon – UK
April 22, 2009
Vivian:
I have been taking CoQ10 for years and was told by my doctor to also take Actonel for my osteoporosis. I have been off the Actonel meds since October of 2008 and cannot see any difference. I still have pain in my leg muscles and bones. Now my feet both feel like I am walking on cotton under my toes.
Thank you.
April 22, 2009
I agree with Susan Berkeys comments. I too have been very interested in the late Dr John Lee’s research. I do remember at a talk he was giving stating that fosomax etc destroyed the osteoclast, which he explained acted like little pacmen, going round your body resorbing the old bone and the osteoblasts then coming along and depositing the new bone. When the osteoclasts are destroyed the old bone just builds up and up till it finally starts to crumble. This can take as little as seven years to happen. If you look at the warnings on fosomax etc, it tells you if you have a fracture or break to discontinue taking immediately. This is one of the reasons why. Dr Lee also said that the only thing in the world that would make new bone was natural progesterone.
This natural progesterone has many good effects, not only does it help make new bone but protects from breast cancer as you are no longer oestrogen dominant, protects from vasal spasm and greatly helps the hot flushes. I have been using the cream now for about 10 years and have gone through the menopause without even knowing it existed. A male friend of mine stopped taking fosomax years ago after I told him the effects and he started using the progesterone and has only improved since and much healthier for it too.
September 10, 2009
what kind of cream do you use?
how does it work?
Vivvian? what is your take on this?
June 22, 2010
What type of progesterone cream are you using? Sounds very good!
August 25, 2010
Getting a script from a doctor w/the dose that is appropriate for your needs is what is best. I will help you. All hormones are needed to be replaced at optimal levels. Testosterone as well as progesterone build bone. Contact me Susan Berkey, Bio-Identical Hormone and Nutrition Coach. sberkey@teacher.com or 330-497-8927
August 25, 2010
It is always wonderful to know that there are others out there that believe in a natural safe way to take care of hormonal symptoms.The replacement of all our hormones is necessary to prevent age-related diseases. I work w/a compounding pharmacist and a GYN and together we work as a team to get all our hormones balanced. Let me help you achieve that balance so you can live the rest of this journey happy and disease free. Contact me at 330-497-8927 or sberkey@teacher.com Trust me for $25 you will be pleased. Bio-Identical and Health Coach, LLC
April 22, 2009
Dear Vivian,
I have got your book. I am following your recommend about diet. I am feeling better now. I do appreciated your book and also the autor.
I will give CoQ10 a try.
Thank you very much for your loving, caring and sharing.
All the best!
April 22, 2009
Dear Vivian,
Thanks for the update. I have already been feeling better since starting your 80/20 diet. Will give the CoQ10 a try.
Thanks again,
Mary
June 13, 2009
Hi Mary, I am also following Vibians book and am so pleased that I have an alturnative to those dreadful drugs. However I am having difficulty in obtaining a 80/20 diet. I eat loads of veges very little dairy products etc but I am more in the 60/40 range. Could you please give me a basic guide to the sort of daily foods you eat to obtain the 80/20 level.
I am from Queensland Austalia so there is a great variety of fruits and vege’s. I seem to need something substaintial each meal to fill me up. Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you
April 22, 2009
Hi Vivian, This is my 1st time responding to you. I am thrilled to have found you. I was searching the web for foods that build bone (I broke my ulna and radious–compound–and broken in half–ouch) in my search for calcium rich foods I found your website. Your articles are very informative. thank you for them. I do have a concern about SOY, which I see you do include in some of your recipes and in (for example:the UBIQUINOL for CoQ10.) I have read that soy can deplete the body of nutrients and is bad in a lot of ways. What does your research have to say about the use and dangers of soy??? thank you for your time and expertise. marilyn
April 22, 2009
Hi Lillian:
You never cease to amaze me. Your book has become my Bible. I am so happy I never started taking any of the drugs. I get very excited when I receive your e-mails. I will now start taking Ubiquinol-50 mg. as you suggested. This may be a duplicate reply as the first one did not go thru. If so, I am sorry. Please keep me informed. Love hearing from you.
April 22, 2009
Thank you Vivian,
I had stopped to take the drug Fosamax following your advice. I had been very worried about it and then I got more informed by you.
I am taking Co-Q10 for at least 4 years now, and I am very confident about it.
I cannot believe how medicine and doctors are so bad informed.
Just following advice from pharmaceutical companies !
For all the good information… MERCI.
April 22, 2009
Dear Vivian,
You are a most valuable adviser of women like me who are besieged and even bullied in to taking dangerous drugs for osteoporosis. Even when I have reluctantly tried each new drug and had very bad reactions, my doctors, one after another through the years, would act doubtful that I had given them a good try. I learned of the weight vest for the first time on this site today and will give it a try. I also will go back to exercising with weights which I had to discontinue because of an unrelated health problem but now that I feel better – back to daily exercise. But I still dread every medical appointment because I know the doctor will start pressuring me to take osteoporosis drugs.
April 22, 2009
TO ALL OF YOU FRUSTRATED WITH OSTEO-DRUGS. The most natural approach to bone density is the hormone PROGESTERONE! Dr. Lee spent 30 yrs. researching the benefits of progesterone. Ressearch shows that progesterone and testosterone build bone. As we age, we begin to lose our hormones and become very imbalanced and begin all sorts of health problems. We need to give back to our bodies what it is missing (balanced hormones). I have resesarched Bio-identical hormones for over 14 yrs. This has become a passion for me. I help women all over the US get the knowledge they need to make the rest of their journey healthy and disease free. Bio-identical hormones are identical to what your body makes,are FDA approved and individualized. I only charge $25 to empower you and walk you through the how and why of your hormones. It would be a pleasure to work with you. Thank you, Susan Berkey, Bio-identical and Hormone Health Coach LLC
February 1, 2010
Progesterone hormone that is natural is good as Dr.Lee writes in his book,but is it available in Australia,that is strong enough for me?I am 66 year old women,that have cancer 10 years ago with everything removed,that is ovaries and uterus.
Few years ago I bought some and did nothing for me,because was not enough progesterone in the cream.Can you provide a stronger cream or what do you have available?
I would appreciate your reply.
Thank you Susan
Hildegarda
August 25, 2010
Hildegarda,
Please contact me. You should be able to get your hormones wherever you live. In order to stop the hormone symptoms you need to know what your hormone levels are. I can help you. Contact me. sberkey@cher.com or 330-497-8927
April 22, 2009
Dear Vivian:
Thank you so much for your your articles. Very informative. Keep them coming!
April 22, 2009
Thank you Vivian for this information. Please keep me on your mailing list. The information you provide is very important and relevant to me. I am following up on ubiquinol 50mg.
April 22, 2009
Thank you so much Vivian for keeping us informed. You are making the difference. Sending you infinite blessings. AB
April 22, 2009
Hello Vivian
Many thanks for all the information. I have stopped taking Risedronate Sodium for my osteoporosis, but still take supplements as recommended by you. I will look into Enzyme CoQ10.
Carol.
April 22, 2009
Hi Vivian: Your book has been right on time for me. I was prescribed several of the osteoporosis drugs and had trouble with all of them, from hot flashes to pains and upset stomach. I stayed on Boniva for close to 2 years. I was diagnosed with gastro problems that I had never had before. I know you can develop problems as you age (I’m 55) but these problems got consistently worse until I decided, after reading literature on your site, to stop the Boniva. I have had no problems since then with my “ulcer” and am doing well. I bought the book and am now more enlightened about my own health. I visit my gyno in July and am prepared to argue with him about my stopping the medication for I’m sure he will want me to go back to the Boniva. Thanks again for your book and continued info on saving our bones.
April 22, 2009
Hi Vivian
Thank you for your email updates I have purchased you book and have now ordered coQ10 will let you know how I Go
Regards Rex
April 22, 2009
Hi Susan,
I started taking coQ10 a few weeks ago and stopped using the fosamax and the other comparables about a year ago. I just don’t understand the physicians who keep reassuring their patients about them. Thank you for your marvelous work and dedication.
April 22, 2009
Thank you for the information, I like to get the updates. Nancy
April 22, 2009
Years ago, a family member tried powdered Comfrey for a complete fracture of the ankle bone? which, after nine months had had a screw inserted to aid healing. THis had been in for some time, and still no progress. After a teaspoon of Comfrey 3 times daily for three weeks, the darned anklebone healed itself so well that doctors were unable to remove the screws.
I thought of usung Comfrey to re-form my osteo-porotic bones. what do you think?
April 22, 2009
Thank you for the info’ about CoQ10. You recommend taking the gelatin, but what if you are vegetarian please?
Thank you.
September 22, 2009
That was exactly my question: Gelatin is not vegetarian, so what are our options??
April 22, 2009
Thank you Vivian for your latest most interesting article. Right now I don’t take any drugs other than, if I got an infection, an anti-biotic
Of course if I was suffering greatly I guess I would take something
[not the Bisphosphonates]
Also thanks for information about CoQ10. I’ve heard it talked about but had no idea what it was. I shall now investigate further and perhaps give it a go
cheers
April 22, 2009
Dear Vivian Are you coming out with a natural substance supplement to help us with osteoporosis?? I thought thru our past conversation you had expressed that you were?? Please respond..Thanx for all your help.I still refuse to even start on any medications since gaining your knowledge…You are an angel sent to help us in this area of medicine…Thanx Anna809@cs.com
April 22, 2009
Vivian, thanks for the informatiom on CoQ10. I have your book and I read it all the time.
April 22, 2009
I quit taking fosamax over a year ago and at my last bone density test was told that my bones were the same as when on this medication so obviously it was not helping me but was causing side affects such as bad heartburn, etc.
April 21, 2009
Hi Vivian,
thanks for your article, it looks very interesting. I was on Actonel for 5 years and guess what, my bone density get worse in last two years. I am also low on calcium in my blood even when taking calcium & vitamin D supplements. Now I am getting some test to find out what is going on. CoQ10 test may be the right direction.
Thanks for your work and please keep me on you mail list
Liba
April 21, 2009
I love getting the articles. I have just ordered your book and I my eagerly awaiting it. I was diagnosed with Cervical Cancer in 2005, had surgery, radiation and Chemotherapy. Then developed Hyper Parathyroidism, which lead to severe osteoporosis. After successful surgery my doctor wanted to put me on Fosamax which I was against and had been looking for something natural to help
me when I found your website. Thank you for all that you do.
November 18, 2009
Lynda: I also was treated for cervical cancer, radiation, chemo & brachytherapy March 2007. PET scan is ok. But I developed osteoporosis. Was given Fosamax and stopped after 4 months after reading articles against it. I take co Q10 for many yrs. for gum disease, which it helps. NOw looks like it is good for bones too.
April 21, 2009
hi vivian thanks for all your help do you know i have to have a test taken if i am to have a tooth pulled out because i once took fosamax and it could result in cancer of the jaw. i wrote to you and hope you will reply many thanks mel
April 21, 2009
Thank you, Vivian. i am just wondering if the drugs that i took, and i took Fosamax, Boniva and the nasal spray each for about one year. hopefully these drugs will eventually be out of my system. do you think i did much harm to my body since i did take the drugs for about 5 years? i quit cold turkey and i have never looked back. i cannot convince my sister and a friend that the drugs are harmful. my doctor is also upset with me as he thinks i am doing myself a great deal of harm by not taking the Boniva he has prescribed. thank you so much for the research you have done. i am sure that many women are learning a great deal more about osteoporosis thanks to you! diane cross
April 21, 2009
Thank you -very interesting article.
April 21, 2009
Thank you very much for this added information. As always, it is sincerely appreciated and will be sent on to others, to further inform/educate.
April 21, 2009
Hi Vivian. I went to see my rheumatologist the other day. She was so compliementary about my weight loss (19 pounds since January 1) so I shared with her that I was following an alkaline diet and exercising with weights in an attempt to improve by bone density. I quoted the part of the book that says that the Bishposphonates interfere with new bone generation. She absolutely confirmed that by saying she is now recommending her patients take a medication vacation in an attempt to let their bones build new cells. Interesting. I see her for rheumatoid arthritis and she had no problem with what I am doing. Thanks so much for keeping us off those terrible drugs.
April 21, 2009
Dear Vivian-
I purchased your book a few months ago. It was very informative. I have osteoporosis and my doctor prescribed fosamax. I researched fosamax, read its side effects, and refused to take it. On the internet I came across your article. That’s when I sent away for your book. The other doctor I go to. Dr. Leonid Gordin, at the Marino Health Center in Cambridge, MA 02140, has increased my Vitamin D. A few blood tests later proved I gained some bone mass.
My brother was taking fosamax, I gave him your web site, he sent for your book, and when he read all the side effects of fosamax, he stopped taking it.
Thank you for enlightening those of us who were unaware of fosamax.
I do not take drugs of any kind except insulin because I’m insulin dependent.
I take a host of vitamin supplements including Coenzyme 10, 100mg three time a day. I will continue on my health regimen and I feel great and soon I’ll be 84.
Please keep sending up to date email on living a good quality of life.
Thank you.
April 21, 2009
Thank you for your articles Vivian, I have widespread Paget’s disease, have had one course of Actonel before buying your book, I am reluctant to take it again (no side effects), however my blood tests have improve dramatically since and I have follow up blood tests in six months. Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks Betty Bassett.
August 5, 2009
I also have Paget’s Disease throughout my body, I am reluctant to take Reclast and I am doing research to find an alternative! I have had constant pain in every bone in my body for the past 5 years, none of the pain pills I’ve taken seem to help enough.
Sincerely,
Irene Ellena
April 21, 2009
I Have your book. I appreciate it so much. I appreciate your news letters, also. I have ordered Ubiquinol. Thanks for your help. I am so glad I am not on those Fosomax type medicine. Lorraine
June 29, 2009
Vivian,
What is Ubiquinol? Does it help osteoporosis? I am between a a rock & a hard stone due to other very serious health issues. I wll not take the risks associated with all these drugs. My doctoras are all furious with me. My T Score is -3.2.
Thank you, Cathy
July 1, 2009
I am having the same problems. My T Score is getting worse with every bone scan. I am doing everything I am suppose to do, calcuim supplements, etc.
I have taken Fosamax for over 10 years to prevent osteoporosis and I have it and it is getting worse. I am a nervous wreck.
April 21, 2009
Thank you Vivian for keeping us informed. I purchased your book, since I was on fosamax for 8 years, now being told my bone density has worsensed with parts of my lumbar spine in the “osteoporosis” margin. I have spoken with the fosamax representatives and questioned them about their drug, asking if these drugs retard new bone growth…and of course they deny it…but at the same time are unable to answer my questions completely. Physicians all disagree about the length of time one should take these drugs. We all thought we were “building” bone, but now we learn that the outer layer is hardened, and I believe my back injury was a compression fracture from 1 year ago. However, as a nurse, I refused an x-ray, since I’ve become disgusted with traditional medicine, feeling very much like a guinea pig with these drugs. Best I could do is join an osteopororis support group, a group of women sharing, believing in more natural approaches, and your book is recommended. Many of us find little assistance from our physicians and the bisphosphonates, feeling like “victims”. The group therapy is helpful as is what you offer. Thanks so much for sharing, especially since the best method we have is new, useful information with sensible approaches
April 21, 2009
Hi Vivian! Thanks for this information! I am taking so many vitamins and supplements right now that I am hesitant to add another. I am trying to get over the terrible side affects I have had since I took Boniva for 4 months. I must have been crazy to listen to my Rheumatoid Doctor that perscribed it for me. I am no longer seeing him. I now have only the muscle and neck spasms and burning in the esophagus at times.I had many others so I am making progress with the vitamins and supplements I am taking every day. I do appreciate all your support you have given me. Thank you so much! Eva Baker
April 21, 2009
Thank you Vivian for the article, good to hear from you again . Please keep me on the list.
April 21, 2009
Vivian,
Thank You for all that you Do. I was taking “forteo” for nine weeks when I saw an advertisement for your book. I ordered your book and I receive your e-mails. You have taken on a huge mission. Thank you for your research and for sharing the information. I am currently taking citrical supplement and eating anything green possible. I am unable to walk but I do go to the gym and do upper body exercise for 30 each day. I am convinced that the medical community is not my or anyone else’s friend. With them it is all about money.
Thank You Vivian
April 21, 2009
Hi Vivian
I have your book and get your e-mail update. Since my stem cell transplant in 2002, I take CoQ10, on the recommendation of my oncologist. However, since I’ve been on prednisone for immunosuppression, GVHD, and lung inflammation (asthma/severe restrictioN), I have been taking Actonel 35 mg since the transplant. The long term use of prednisone has caused many side effects: bone density loss, hyperlipidemia and hyper glycemia (Diabetes 2 insulin dependent); “baby cataracts”, lower leg edema, veinous insufficiency and stasis dermatitis; and most recently avascular necrosis of both hips (tibia head). I just had left hip replacement surgery and need to get the right hip replaced. Unfortunately, it looks like I will be on these meds for the forseeable future. So I’m not sure what to do.
Any suggestions?