In the Osteoporosis Reversal Program I dedicate an entire chapter to the discussion of all the osteoporosis drugs, including Fosamax and its generic formula alendronate sodium. This is a popular bisphosphonate drug widely prescribed by doctors and advertised on TV and other media outlets.
Marketing ads for this drug offer no information whatsoever on what bisphosphonates are really made of, and for a good reason. You’ll know why once you read an excerpt from the Introduction to an article by the late Dr. Herbert Fleisch titled “Bisphosphonates: Mechanisms of Action”. It was published in the prestigious Endocrine Reviews in the year 1998. Dr. Fleisch was a Swiss pioneer researcher on metabolic bone diseases whose work led to the discovery of bisphoshponates as osteoporosis drugs.
He writes that:
“Bisphosphonates were used in industry, mainly as corrosion inhibitors or as complexing agents in the textile, fertilizer, and oil industries. Their ability to inhibit calcium carbonate precipitation, similar to polyphosphates, was put to good use in the prevention of scaling. Only in the past three decades have bisphosphonates been developed as drugs for use in various diseases of bone, tooth, and calcium metabolism.”
Isn’t it amazing that mainstream scientists openly admit the industrial origins of these drugs? And wouldn’t you expect that they would think twice before they even considered such toxic chemicals as potential bone health solutions? Obviously, that is not the case because thanks to several not-so-coincidental sequence of events, bisphosphonate drugs became instant best-sellers, raking billions of dollars to their manufacturers.
The story of an osteoporosis drug as told by Mr. Allen Dronate Himself
The first mass-marketed bisphosphonate was alendronate sodium, branded as Fosamax and promising to cure osteoporosis, a brand new bone disease as defined by the World Health Organization in the early 90’s. Approved in the US on September 29th 1995, Fosamax has made billions of dollars to pharmaceutical giant Merck. Its patent expired in February 2008, and since then, generic alendronate sodium is widely available and still used by millions of women and men all over the world.
So who better than the obnoxious Mr. Allen Dronate himself to narrate his meteoric success story (as you can see, I’m in a lighthearted mood today). This is how it all began…
Forget my humble origins; they don’t mean a thing!
Hi there! I’m Allen Dronate, one of the luckiest and richest guys you’ll ever meet. I used to live in dirty workshops, grimy warehouses with heavy machinery, fertilizer manufacturing plants, and other disgusting industrial places. I was handled by careless mechanics and factory workers, and I hated every minute of my life, including them! But hey, why should they care about a worthless chemical that costs pennies?
But one day, my life took a sudden 180 degree turn for the better. I don’t want to waste my time getting into details, but thanks to a bunch of brainy “Einsteins” led by my hero, Dr. Fleisch, I became what I was meant to be: a high class money-making machine, getting respect and the royal treatment I always deserved.
You see, scientific studies show that I can somehow increase bone density, at least for the first couple of years, and once this was rubber-stamped by a well-known government agency… money has been pouring out of peoples’ pockets like hot lava from a volcano!
I really don’t know exactly what to do, except that I’m supposed to destroy osteoclasts – if I find them. I don’t even know what those lowlifes look like, so I attach myself to bone and hope for the best. As far as I know, all I have to do is mess up normal bone metabolism, and voila! Mission accomplished. I can also wreak havoc in people’s digestion, cause joint and muscle aches plus a whole slew of other nasty side effects…
But, who cares? I certainly don’t. Nobody can see me there anyways. Some party-poopers claim to have seen giant osteoclasts around me, but if you ask me, they’re totally insane. No wonder just about everyone in the medical field ignores them.
Hey docs, continue to keep your eyes and ears shut and those prescriptions coming… I’m working out a deal to get my first Rolls Royce next month.
It’s ALL about image, NOT substance
It’s a good thing I already have an extremely low opinion of all you people, otherwise I’d be upset at the bad rap I’m getting lately, especially from that lady Vivian from Save Our Bones. She keeps saying that there are better drug-free ways to increase bone density and she’s probably right, but hey, she could ruin my lifestyle. So get lost, lady, I need to Save My Profits!
I’ll tell you the secret of my success, and listen well, before I regret that I told you this. It’s all about image. You see, from the moment medical scientists considered me a valuable prescription drug, I had a complete makeover. I became a neat little tablet inside fancy-shmancy packaging. With this new image, my popularity just kept growing. Before I forget, here’s a shout out to those marketing guys for the great job they’re doing. Hey guys, Allen Dronate loves ya!
And what I life I have! I’m given the “white glove treatment”… literally. Lab workers sometimes even wear masks when they handle me. No more dirty warehouses for me. Now I live in a clean laboratory and my name’s all over well-known medical publications.
If there’s one thing I learned from hanging out with scientists is that most of them are quite gullible… they believe in their own one-sided “studies”. Good for me, bad for the people… but who cares?
Oh, and I met an over the counter wonder, Tyla Knowl – my new girlfriend. She’s all mine, that is if I can keep that slimy Rick Last away from her. You know, the one for “women on the go”. Hey Rick, they’re on the go all right …straight to the hospital they go, you loser. But I digress. I want to continue talking about what’s really important: moi…
So what’s wrong with chemicals anyway?
Listen, I may not be the nicest guy, but I’m filthy rich; and that’s what really matters. Sometimes I feel a bit of remorse about what I’m doing. But then, I remember that the same agency that approved me approved many other drugs and more than 3,000 chemicals used as food additives. So what can one more do, in the greater picture of things?
I don’t know what the future will bring, but for now, I’m living the life… And as long as humans continue to gamble with their health, I’ll keep raking in the big bucks. So long, losers.
So there you have it from Mr. Allen Dronate himself. Pretty shocking stuff huh… good thing you know better.
Read this VERY intersting report by a 20 year veteran of the FDA, and VIOXX whistleblower, about the agencie’s innefectiveness in regards to drug safety; EYE OPENING to say the least:
https://www.naturalnews.com/011401.html
Adam My Mother almost died from Vioxx. She was bleeding to death internally. She had a nasty ulcer in the duodenum. Gratefully, her Dr. found it, cautherized it, and she survived. However, later, the osteoporosis, for which she took the vioxx, caught up to her and she passed away after breaking the femur 2X. God Bless Her in Heaven! Jeanette
I am seeing an acupuncturist & Herbalist for my osteoarthritis. He recommended that I take 1 table spoon of Fermented in vinegar Black Beans for calcium. Can You give me your feedback on this.
It’s an eye opening article. Great service you’re doing. we’re at loss what to believe and what not to.
Thank-you for the information.
Sarla
I took Fosamax for about 2-3 months and developed an ulcer….I am still on anti- acids, but since following Vivian’s suggestions, I am feeling alot better…
One thing we can all do to promote Vivian and her good works, is post this information on our Facebook pages for our friends to see…Just hit like, log in to FB and the link will be on your page….I do this often, feeling that if I just help one person, it will be well worth it… I have a friend who tells me she is going to have to start doing something, wants the information and enjoys reading the article… So spread the word.!!
Mary
Thanks again Vivian for another great article on osteoporosis drugs. I am so greatful for the Save Our Bones program and for all the information, recipies and exercises your send to me absolutley free. You and your program are great!
Dear Vivian
Four years ago I had a bone ultrasound (as I dont like Xrays) with a T Score of 1.8.Two days ago I was dreading the thought of having another test as I thought it would be worse(both of my parents had osteoporosis).
Imagine my surprise when she gave me the results. T Score 1.8 I had not lost any bone and my % Age Matched has increased from 86 to 93.She said that at my age 61 I should have lost at least 5%. She asked me what sort of calcium I was taking and I told her none,I only have milk in my tea and coffee. The only supplement I have taken for 3 years is two 3mgs of boron daily.I have a normal (no junk food)diet and I work as a cleaner.
I hope this information is of some use to the Save Our Bones Community
cheers
Robyn
My Mom has been on Fosamax for 4 years. I recall that she was very weak and had terrible rashes all over her body for 6 months. She had gone to Disneyworld with my sister and while she was there she had a terrible gum, bone and tooth infection. Also, at that time, she developed a baldspot, the size of a quarter, just above her ear. My nutritionist first informed me of the dangers of Fosamax 3 years ago. I informed my mom and the Dr. said to keep taking it for 5 years, then she could go off of it. He has since retired, as of 12/10. She has 9 mos more to go. … Then what! I am so worried.
If you can change it, why do you allow your dear mother to continue in this vicious path for continuing ILL HEALTH???? With these discouraging symptoms it is imperative that someone who cares about her DO something about taking her OFF this BAD BAD JUNK- Fosamax!! FIVE years–she could be DEAD if you delay any action. I will pray for God’s wisdom for you and for her!!!
After reading your funny Story Vivian, I am sad. To many Good People are being HAD. The right direction is to walk this way. That is to say “I’m saving my bones the Vivian Way”…I’m about to go out for a walk and get some natural vitamin D. Psycologically better each day and the only money I have to pay for my treatment is for the food I would eat anyway. My bones don’t grown when I walk a mile or two. I’m eating lots of good food, and I think the more I read the more I find my condition is getting better all the time. I am looking forward to my next Bone Scan in December 2011. I will continue the Save my Bones Program for life. This is the BEST WAY for me to improve my bone health. I’ve done research everyday and I’ve decided to stay. It works if you do it the Vivian way…..
I have read this blog with great interest as I have taken Fosamax for 15 years straight after breaking a hip way back in 1996 – requiring a steel one – and bone density said I had Osteoporosis. I had stopped once before for six months but I was so afraid of breaking another bone that I went back on it. Yes I get some heartburn – went to a specialist – had no esopogeal problems. But I often need half a Tum at bedtime for mild heartburn. I quit taking Fosamax after recently reading Vivian’s blog. I will get the book and start her new treatment idea.
In 1998 I had breast cancer – Stage 0 – did 3 surgeries – lost lymph nodes for no reason – and had 50 readiation treatments. I took Tamoxifen for 5 years which reduces one’s bone density. The Fosamax was suppose to offset it so my doctor did no more bone density tests. In fact I just had one last fall and have not enquired about the results yet.
On top of all that in 2004 I acquired COPD (I did smoke for about 20 years but had quit in 1982..go figure. So I take these inhalers (which may also reduce bone density – I am not sure).
I had gotten into exercise mode after breaking my hip. So I did 4 years of Step Aerobics until my breast cancer surgeries. Now I have gone to Curves for the past several years and hope this has helped. I feel better. Like others of you, I suffer from joint pain mostly in my wrists and one finger – I think it is related to playing my guitar so I play less but still take lessons to keep up a little.
I worry all the time about the effects of all these drugs.
Now I am going to get Vivian’s book and try a new approach to life.
Good luck to all of you. Sounds like we need it.
Anne
THANKS for your great re-do on Sally Field’s ad.
EVERY time I see her in that ad, I feel such disappointment that she chose to “fail her fans” with misinformation. They could not have picked a better person to rep that product…unfortunately. Remember when Sally, accepting some actress award, said …”You like me, you really, really like me.” I don’t anymore, and always find myself saying outloud, to my TV, shame on you Sally.
My doctor gave me a prescription for Fosomax 1 1/2 years ago. I did not fill it. I have not been back for my annual physical since then and I would like you to email a very short statement listing all the side effects of the drug so I can take it to my appointment. Most of what you send is excellent, but too long to print out. Thank you.
Betsey
Hello to you all,
Today I had a birthday so I am now 81yrs young.
I really think it is up to us to gage what our Doctor says & make the decision. Fosamax is a deadly drug as is all & osteoporous is a name the drug companies use to scare us but we should get on & enjoy life.
Dulce
Dear Dulce–Happy Birthday!! I am so thrilled when I read a story like yours, where YOU made the wise decision to get off bad drugs!! I was prescribed one of the drugs for my bones,(Evista) so glad when I read that they were all bad and made the decision to NOT take them. Took the drug for almost two years. I am thrilled to read many many articles that tells us not to use these bad drugs!!! Thanks for sharing and God Bless you!!
Dulce Thank you for your wise comments! Happy Birthday! I admire you and hope I too can be there some day. I am 65, a 2X cancer survivor, and now trying to get by with this broken vertabrae, etc. The osteoporosis did not kick in too much until after the chemo, steroids, etc. I try to stay grateful. Jeanette
Really puzzled and worried. Do these articles and comments include ALECDRONIC TABLETS which I am taking?
Help
Mary (England)
Hi Mary,
Did you mean alendronic acid (aka alendronate sodium)? If so, yes, that’s the generic name for Fosamax.
Hi Vivian
I love blueberries but I noticed that according to your book, they are acid forming. However, the list I got from the naturobath doctor, indicated that they are alkaline. I only eat wild or organic blueberries. Does that make a difference?
Rita
Hi Riitta,
Wild or organic blueberries may have fewer toxins, but they’re still acidifying. Keep in mind that acidifying foods aren’t BAD, and many of them have beneficial qualities. It’s all about balance. Go ahead and enjoy your blueberries, but balance them with alkalizing foods.
I have to come off from my once a month tablet of Boneviva-Iam going for Dexa Scan after 14th Dec. I would like to know how to leave this-meaning just stop it or drop one month-off and on. I have gain some density since 2006 I am taking it but my throat and feet is on fire usually for one week or so and I do not sleep well-makes me tired and feverish.
Any suggestions—
I agree with Irma…. Article dated Jan. 16, 2010. She wrote: PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT OF ALL THESE DRUGS. IN MY OPINION YOU SHOULD SPREAD THE WORD ON TELEVISION TO ALERT PEOPLE.
I honestly believe many people do not know of your program…Most women fail to do the research and think the doctor are the answer.
I am sick of Medication. A few years ago I took tamoxificin to prevent breast cancer and it caused uterine cancer. After I recovered I was prescribed fosamax and now I am recovering from a broken femur in my left leg and a fractured femur in the right leg. I had to have a steel rod put in the left leg and will have a rod put in the right leg month. I’m too young for this mess.
If you’re susceptible to breast and uterine cancer you may be short of iodine. Have a look at https://www.vitamincfoundation.org/iodine.htm if you want to find out more.
Dear Barbara–as long as you take these crappy drugs to “help your bones”– my suggestion….get OFF them NOW— take responsibility for your own health— you will only continue to be so susceptible to bone breakage–how many more real stories do you need to read? For your own sake–quit them now!!! When a Dr tells me just take this or that.it will “Protect this or that” I RUN like crazy. IF we do not act on our own behalf and GET INFO, then it is our own fault if we kill ourselves!!! Get Smart–I Pray you will.
Vivian, I did enjoy the story on bone density meds.I am glad, I went off Actonel, 3 weeks ago. My doctor had said, I would lose, all that I had built up, with taking the Forteo, for 13 months.But will take my chances, with calcium etc.
I read all the questions, and find them interesting, it would be helpful, if when you publish the question if you would publish the answer at the same time. Elizabeth
Thanks, Vivian, for all the e-mails. I agree with you 100%. I don’t take those drugs….they make me sick! I did take Strontium for 2 years and my bone density test went up significantly. But I see that your don’t agree with Strontium because it builds bones the way Actonel and other meds do, so I won’t take it anymore. I plan on getting your program, but right now, I’m on a high protein diet to lose about 45 pounds…that seems to be the only way for me to lose weight. I know it’s not good for the bones, but after I’m down, I will go on your program.
Cecile, and others, if you want to lose weight naturally you should eat the “natural hygiene” way.
Its been around since the 1920’s, with Dr. Shelton.
Proper combination of foods will aid digestion which will automatically reduce weight. You really are what you eat. Check out “fit for life” or “great taste no pain” Another topic that is not mentioned enough, especially where weight is a concern. Check out the National Health Association.
john
Vivian,
I send for your program today and can’t wait to recieve it. The doctore scared me half to death my t-score was -2.0 to -2.5 he told me that I need fosmax. I got the drug ,did not take it, called my friend upset she gave me your web-site. Thank God for both of you. The doctor told me my spine was so bad that I could have a spinal facture any time. Had me in tears.With Gods help and yours and lots of pray I know your program will work. Thank you
jessie (Mia)
Hello Vivian ami glad i found your programme. Its only been a few weeks and i no longer have the joint pains i had.I feel better in myself. When the weather turned rainy etc. i was really suffering but to my suprise not now.So something has happened for my good. Thank you i am following your diets to the best i can do and its working.
Thank you so much. Dr not impressed.
Dear Vuvian,
Severe osteoporosis (25% in the lumbae region) has now developed after taking letrozole against breast cancer – lumpectomy and removal of lymph glands up to my shoulder on left side (Jan 2008). Prognosis poor.
In June 2010, I cracked several ribs, after a fall. Prescribed fosamax, but had to give it up after two once-a-week-doses because of unbearable side effects. Intense migraine and pain, nausea and active sickness, acute diarrhoea, unable to eat. the pain was so intense that I just wanted to die. I stopped the fosamax, and told the doctor I couldn’t face taking any more.
Doctor suggested I be switched to one of the new drugs, that are not bisulphonates. Specialist then presribed actomel, and said that bisulphonates are the best thing for me. The side effects are less intense : just dull headache, difficulty in swallowing, dry throat, sore right jaw, soreness and pain through my digestive system, jaw pain extending into my neck, can hardly eat solid food, eyes affected. He says I am to stay on it for life! What a prospect!
I look forward to receiving your book, so that I can quickly learn a healthier way to get my bone density back. I am 74 years old tomorrow, and was otherwise healthy.
Margaret Ann
I was on Fosamax, and I stop taking them. I found out my D was very low,I am takeing one D3 RX, once a week, my doctor put me on 50,000 units! will the vit.D3 help?
i also hae been put on 50,000 per week vitamin d-3 for osterporsis. my dr.says he also takes it for is osterporsis. i take for 5 weeks – go off for 5 weeks and then see if it helped. comment?
Unfortunately for me, my gums have receded tremendously due to the use of FOSAMAX… The bone loss in my mouth, I am convinced was due to the use of this drug along with the gum recession!!!
At sixty years of age and otherwise in excellent health, this nightmare for me will never end. I cannot believe the expense in the near future what this drug will have cost me, both financially and emotionally!
Please everyone, do not take this drug…
I was on Merk Fosamax for eight years doing ok until I picked up my prescription One day and thought the packaging had been changed as my chemist had covered the name over with their instruction labels. I took them for six weeks then found my arms, legs, and body were covered in sores that would bleed I had a large one on my throat and several on my face. My doctor thought the one on my face was a basal cell carcinoma, and I was sent to a dermatology unit for a biopsy, the result was sent to India to be written up and returned confirming it. But the surgeon who performed the biopsy phoned me to say she had put it under the microscope again and said it was not. But when I went to see her I said I know what it was! it was the Generic alendronate that had been sneaked in on me because one of my friends who had osteoporosis and had been taking the Merk Fosamax for six years was given the generic one and broke out in the same condition as me, but because her doctor would not change her back onto the original she fared far worse and to this day has never really recovered from it. I think to many drug companies jump on the band wagon as they say to make a fast buck and care nothing for the damage they do.
The letter above was mine written a few years ago, it took six months to get rid of the side effecs of the genetic drug. But, I went back on the Fosamax and 2012 I picked up my prescription and found the packaging had changed, after three weeks I had a breathing problem that was like a Asthma attack, then the next month I felt as if I had weevills crawling under my skin on my neck and shoulders. then I felt as though the blood in top of my arms was boiling and throbbing, two weeks later I broke out in sores, I imediately stopped the Fosamax, and six months on I am just about getting back to normal.I am convinced the tablets were changed, I contacted the RMHA, and spoke to a lady called Alison Bunce, she seemed concerned and said to send her the remaining fosamax and box, which I did. but a week later she contacted me and said the leaflet instruction in the box said side effects could produce breathing problems and rashes. So no change there ie: they work for both sides. but I will never take these drugs again.
What a story, Maire – I am so glad you are on the mend now! I wish you a full recovery and thank you for sharing with the community.
Hi! Vivian,
I Really LOVED That Osteoporosis Drug Story. It Was Very Cleverly Narrated By Mr. Allen Dronate.
I Have A Question! I Took Hormones For Years After I Had A Total Hysterectomy. I Started On Premarin In Coated Pill Form, And Then Went To Estradiol, Also A Coated Pill. Then My Doctor Told Me To Wean Myself Off Of The Estradiol, Once Off, I Stayed Off For About Two Years; But I Was Having A Lot Of Pain When Having Sex. So I Went Back To My Doctor And He Told Me To Try The Cream Version Of Estradiol Under The Name Of Estrace 0.01% Cream. And It’s Been Helping My Sex Life, But I Wonder If It Is Going To Cause Problems In The Long Run, Because It Does Have Unpleasant Side Effects. Do You Know If There Is Something I Can Take, Or Do As An Alternative, That’s Safe And Without Side Effects? If You Do, Please Let Me Know What It Is. I Would Appreciate It Very Much, If You Would.
Thank You Very Much, In Advance, For Your Help And Input On This Matter.
LOVE, MS. L.
Hi Vivian
Thanks for the funny story that is a good way
to get a message across Thanks for the emails
Joan
Hello everyone
I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis about 4 months ago. Today (July 8,2010) I went to see my bone doctor. I am what you call a rapid loser and my bone density in my spine is now at -2.5. I am 55 years old and post menopausal.
The Doc gave me a script for Actonel. I told him that I am very hesitant to take these drugs and his response to me was “Do I have to take you over to the surgical wing at the hospital where patients are with broken hips.” I have been on numerous sites for osteoporosis and I want to try anything else besides these drugs. Any advice out there!
Hi Deb:
I read your message with great interest. I am 51 years and was diagnosed with osteoporosis of the spine and osteoporosis of the hip. My mom has very bad osteoporosis and my doctor said I was going to like my mom. I refused to accept this. I was on Actonel for the past 2 years and my bone density decreased. I purchased Vivian’s book and did some research on my own. Weight-bearing exercises, resistance exercises are important. So is eating the right foods (akaline vs acidic). I drink distilled water at home and bottled water while at work. I’ve also been taking Ezorb Calcium. You can google it and read the research that they have done and decide whether it is something you want to try. You might also consider going to a naturopath.
Good luck!
Hi Audrey
Thanks for sharing your information with us. I have been trying to find the best calcium supplement to use. I would like to know how long you have been taking EZORB and what else you take since it does not contain any of the minerals that are used with calcium such as magnesium etc. I have checked out their website, but not sure if I want to buy it yet.
I also found EZorb on line and have been taking it for 3 months, as long as I decided to go off Osteoporosis drug, follow Vivian’s advice etc.
Can’t wait to see what next Bone Mineral Density will show.
Hey Vivian,
I have this post under the Sesame article but thought my question worthy of added exposure.
I have read your book and am following your advice.
I have yet to see any suggestions concerning the use of organic green super foods. You know .. the powdered greens to be mixed in with juice. Being rich in Chlorophyll, mineral,etc, you would think using “greens” would be good for maintaining the acid/alkaline balance. Should I continue using it or save my money?
Keep up the fine job. It’s encouraging.
Cora
I am a Heart transplant patient for over 19 years now and I am 72 years old! I have loads of experience dealing with Doctor’s and its always the same wanting to give you another prescription for what ever ails you.I was on Fosamax for about 3 years and stopped as I found out that this drug is bad!In March I had a bone density test and THe Dr. said come back next year for bone density test and I said is that really necesary and he said ok two years and I requested a copy of the test and the Dr that read the test said minimal .002 grams and has no meaning or concern! You gotta watch them!
One wants to make a million but disregard the health of others, it is so sad. I like the truth and nature.
Hi,
I entered a question on an earlier email and don’t know how long you check each one, so, I am asking again. I would like to know if one can fool an acidic meal by following it with lemon water(if so, how much lemon juice), or vinegar in water? I find it difficult at times to have the proper ratio three times a day and would love to know if we can get around that with a simple solution on occasion?
Thank you! Kathy
Good question…I would like to know the answer to this too…
Mary
I am 81 yrs of age and have broken my back twice in the past 12 months. Surgery each time. I was recently put on Forteo, took it for 2 months and read your reveiw and gave it up.Could not afford $886.26 a month either. In the past have used Fosmax,and Boniva. The Dr. told me I run the risk of fractured hip and death shortly afterward…trying 80/20 and being very very careful walking. Work in the garden as exercise.
I am 36 years old and have had Rheumatoid Arthritis for over 15 years. I was taking Prednisone for this time of 10mg per day. Recently I fractured my femur and was required to have a bone density test. This turned out quite bad with a spine T-score of -2.30 and hip T-score of -2.88. I have since reduced prednisone intake to 3mg per day and will be off it in 2 months time. Dr wants to start me on Fosamax or Actonel. I would like to know if my bone density will increase just by stopping the prednisone without taking any fosamax or actonel. Thanks for your information.
Way to go Vivian – I am so glad I had the good sense to check out these drugs before accepting what my doctor was telling me and so glad I found your site. Keep up the good work.
My husband and I just loved your amusing story with pictures.
I have a bone density score of -4plus in my spine and -3plus in my hips (severe osteoperosis) I had been on Fasomax for about 7yrs and decided to STOP! My scores did not get too much better. Will this program help me now? I exercise about 3-4 times a week (cardio and weight lifting) Am in otherwise excellent health (no drugs)
Dear Vivian,
Recently I heard that Natoo, Japanese form of soy beans can help Osteoporosis.
What do you think about it?
Thanks and all the best,
Shuli, NY
Natto is a Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. I have read that people should only ingest fermented soy & that any other type is not good for you & may actually even be quite harmful. Until recent times only natto or other types of fermented soy were used in Oriental. Apparently, tofu is supposed to be quick new on the dietary scene in comparison to natto. Since most soy is now GMO, make sure your natto is organic as the jury is still out on the possible effects of GMOs. And if you get real Japanese natto for safety’s sake make sure it was jarred & shipped out of Japan nuclear incident.
My radiologist tried to coerce my into taking Reclast 6 mos. ago. I have severe allergies and MCS – I’m certainly not going to take anything which has a half-life of a year. I talked him into letting me try Strontium. What is your opinion of it?
Serah
In the first place, I am a lay person and do not have a medical degree or any medical knowledge.
Having said that, from what I have learned in the past about Strontium from Internet chat is that it produces false positive readings on Dexa scans because Strontium is heavier than calcium and apparently shows up as a different or “darker” image on the Dexa test. Dexa exams were not really meant to test for Strontium anyway. Also, the techs who give the exam have to be told that you are taking Strontium and they have to try to adjust the machine for that purpose. The tech I talked to didn’t really know how to do that, nor did he know anything about Strontium.
I didn’t take it because the results would show that my bones were better than they actually were due to the Strontium. I also didn’t want to grow Strontium in my bones rather than calcium because I didn’t feel that I would ever have a good Dexa exam reading ever after taking Strontium. So I didn’t even want to start it when I found out all these things.
hi Vivian,had osteoporosis for the past 14 yrs have taken most of the biophosphates on the market,l am 52 male,took tablets 39yrs- came off after 18mths because of usual side affects stomach,joints,etc bone loss still occured-48yrs tryed injection pimidronate over 24mths regained 6%-again came off because side affects spashims,joints,extreme tiredness etc.been off drugs for 2yrs and my last scan showed a increase of 16%- my bone density is still 40% down when compared to someone my age.any idea as to why the sudden increase,my doctor says it is the biophosphates still working, l have my doubts as l only put on 6%when on the drug,would be grateful for any advice.ken
The Fosamax metaphor is absolutely entertaining humor.
Two weeks after tooth fillings,[too late for me.
The FDA put out a warning …not to take take Fosamax prior to dental work nor 2 weeks after dental work.They did not say why,but I researched the web and found out I had developed Osteocronosis of the jaw bone.[bone rot].That was 3 years ago,today,my lower teeth are wobbly,lose and will probably fall out with no pain.[Chemical prescriptions are deadly,don`t be stupid !]Wake up & use logic.
THANKYOU VIVIAN,
I REALLY WAS INFORMED ABOUT HOW THESE DRUG COMPANY’S RUN. I WILL DO EVERYTHING NATURAL OR AS NATURAL AS CAN BE TO INCREASE MY BONE HEALTH. I HAVE HAD SUCCESS IN DOING SO ALREADY WITH WHAT I HAVE CHOSEN TO CONSUME. THANKYOU SO MUCH FOR HELPING THE PUBLIC. I AM SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOUND YOUR SITE ON THE INTERNET.
KRISTINE M. VARZAL
Who cares about a bunch of cranky old ladies anyway. We are going to make millions with bad medicine. This attitude is so sad; nlsl–not laughing so loud.
People have got to learn to be proactive in their health. Many times doctors have no clue about the prescriptions they are prescribing for you or the side effects. There are some who don’t care either. The almighty dollar clouds the vision for many. When I read some of the testimonials on the internet of the side effects that Alendronate and other so called bone builders was causing women,I couldn’t get off of it fast enough. When I started reading other people’s accounts of their side effects it scared me to death because I had already started experiencing some of them, even though I had been on Alendronate no more than 6 months. I had achy bones and my left thumb felt like it had been broken. I had acid reflux, my vision had gotten worse, and my hair seemed to be thinner. That was after 6 months. Scary, scary, scary. I wish physicians knew and cared about what they precribe to their patients, but many really don’t.
I had to laugh when I got a report back from my doctor after a recent Scan for bone density. It said that my bone density was ok … pretty much the same as it had been several years previous … so to keep on taking Fosamax. I had quit taking it 5 years ago (after 1 year) because of side affects. I’m doing well now and use exercise and diet instead of chemicals. Money in my pocket instead of “theirs” and good health to me!
Careerism is a problem that also pervades the physical and mental health care world. Drugs are developed; worthless advice is given and sworn by; just so companies and stockholders can cash in; and stupid people can publish to keep their jobs; or advance their careers.
Of course we who know better are treated like idiots and outcasts if we dare question the purveyors of this useless pablum. So, like the philosopher Socrates said, we must question authority. Stay educated; avoid bad drugs and products; disregard bad advice; and heed good advice. And, remain educated enough to know the difference.
hi vivian laughter is the best medicine dont get much from my gp i love to see truths revieled
I had the Reclast infusion November of 08 and it is past time to do it again. I have severe Osteoartritis, Fibromylgia and Sjogrens Syndrone. I have had a Cervical Fusion & Disctomy. My back, knees and hips hurt a lot. My doctor says I have it in every joint I have. I didn’t want to do the Reclast but she talked me into it saying my health was too bad not to do it. My question is, would you do it if you had my health problems. She said she would. I have been going to her for over 20 years. She is a Rhumotologist. I know I have spelled some of the words wrong. Sorry.
Thank you so much,
Shirley Bell
Shirley,
I look at it differently: you have too many conditions that don’t need to get aggravated with drugs that can potentially worsen the symptoms you already have. You might want to ask your doctor if she even remotely thought of this possibility.
So true, but depressing
Thanks for the info to determine I’m better off without faximax. My knees have gotten real bad, and sometimes my legs feel for a moment they are going weak. I breathe deeply and I’m then ok.I no longer get heel spirs, I,m really careful now about what I put in my mouth.Thank you for your web site.
I FOUND THIS ARTICLE DISGUSTING.
VIVIAN, PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW THE TRUE ABOUT OF ALL THESE DRUGS. IN MY OPINION YOU SHOULD SPREAD THE WORD ON TELEVISION TO ALERT PEOPLE.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, YOU WILL BE REGARDED !!!
I have been taking Boniva for several years. I have noticed I was losing my hair. After reading some of your comments, I quit taking it. What would you recommend taking to fill the need of calcium in my body?
First, you have to make sure you’re not losing the calcium you already have. Then, supplement with an organic form of calcium (or amino acid chelated calcium). Calcium citrate is the best inorganic option.
Vivian,
Your comment says to make sure we are not losing the calcium in our bones that we already have. Well, I am doing all I know and I think I am missing something. What is the key?
Please advise.
Vivian: I can’t thank youo enough for all the information you have provided. I have been completely relieved from severe pain in the bones of my arms – can even raise my arms now to take care of my hair since I have stopped taken fosamax. It took a while for it to work out of my system but I am most grateful to feel back to normal. You deserve the best in life.