Reclast: The Miracle Oral Bisphosphonate Alternative? - Save Our Bones

Let’s face it. When news breaks of an osteoporosis drug discovery that increases bone strength and reduces fractures in the hip, spine, wrist, leg, and rib, the medical establishment listens… and prescribes.1

Add to this the convenience of a once-yearly 15 minute intravenous infusion, and it seems like an osteoporosis treatment dream come true.

The drug I’m referring to is Reclast (zoledronic acid), marketed as Aclasta outside of the U.S.

Reclast is a recently approved bisphosphonate manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Novartis, and is portrayed as the magic osteoporosis and osteopenia solution.

It was developed as an alternative to oral bisphosphonates, such as Fosamax (alendronate), Boniva (ibandronate), and Actonel (risedronate), which have a long list of undesirable side-effects.

Persistent gastric disorders such as heartburn, nausea, and flatulence are the most common, making it difficult to follow the oral drug regimen. In fact, studies confirm a dismal and suboptimal rate of compliance for bisphosphonates.2 Based on a survey conducted by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, “up to 60% of patients who take a once-weekly bisphosphonate and nearly 80% who take a once-daily bisphosphonate discontinue treatment within a year.”3 So – at least in the eyes of Big Pharma – an intravenous infusion is a logical alternative to pills.

The “Solution” Brings New Problems

Unfortunately, the “solution” to circumvent undesirable side effects with the purpose of increasing compliance, brings about new problems – and they are quite undesirable, to say the least. In other words, in exchange for the often persistent and ultimately dangerous digestive problems caused by oral bisphosphonates, patients could be subject to other nasty symptoms after a Reclast infusion. (If you haven’t yet, check out my blog post titled “Alert: Bisphosphonates Double the Risk of Esophageal Cancer”.)

Here is a partial list of the most common side effects of Reclast:

  • Fever
  • Muscle, joint, and bone pain
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Headaches

The Devastation of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

But none of the above compare to the most damaging negative consequence of Reclast: the dreaded and ultimately virtually incurable Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ). Also known as dead jaw, ONJ is characterized by the inability of the jaw to heal following dental trauma or surgery. The jawbone tissue becomes infected and eventually dies. It is a very painful condition, leading to exposed bone and disfigurement.

Unfortunately, the treatment of ONJ is most often an unsuccessful challenge. According to a study conducted by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Sheba Medical Center in Israel, there is only an 18% chance that ONJ will completely heal and a 52% chance that it will only partially heal with long-term antibiotic therapy.4 And the researchers found “no association between ONJ and diabetes, steroid and antiangiogenic treatment, or underlying periodontal disease.” The author’s conclusion is that “solutions for decreasing morbidity and poor outcome of ONJ remain elusive.”

In all fairness, the majority of the reported ONJ cases involved the use of a larger dose of zoledronic acid for the treatment of various cancers. So the drug called Zometa, also by Novartis, seems to ranks first, with the most reported cases of ONJ. But some studies show numbers where intravenous osteoporosis treatment caught up with ONJ diagnosis for certain types of cancer therapies.

For example, in a review of 19 ONJ bisphosphonate-related cases, 11 patients were treated for breast cancer, four patients for multiple myeloma, and also four cases for osteoporosis.5 Study authors describe ONJ as a “rare, but morbid condition.” Indeed, its symptoms are quite catastrophic, and include:

  • Pain, swelling, and/or infection of the gums
  • Loosening of teeth
  • Poor healing of gums
  • Numbness or the feeling of heaviness in the jaw
  • Partial or complete loss of the jaw bone

Risk vs. Reward

In view of these awful drug side effects, when you are faced with decisions about your bone health, it is critical you take a step back and look at all your options. A magical once-yearly infusion might sound tempting, but let’s not lose sight of the “What Ifs”.

In the end, Reclast is much like other bisphosphonates. It alters normal bone metabolism and sacrifices long-term results for temporary benefits. And worse yet, it does so by stopping the production of osteoclasts necessary for future osteoblast production and bone remodeling. For a more whimsical look at how bones renew themselves, be sure to check out: “How Your Bones Renew Themselves: An Inside Look”.

In light of this, that's why I always recommend natural solutions that build your bones in harmony with your body.

Don't go one more day without rebuilding your bones: If you haven't yet, get the free Natural Bone Building Handbook as my gift to you and discover how simple it is to increase your bone density without dangerous side-effects. Then for detailed guidance every step of the way, try the Osteoporosis Reversal Program to accelerate your bone growth.

Stay natural and drug-free!

References

1 Black D, Delmas, S, Eastell R et al for the HORIZON Pivotal Fracture Trial. Once-yearly Zoledronic Acid for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. NEJM 2007; 356(18):1809-22.
2 Cramer JA et al. A systematic review of persistence and compliance with bisphosphonates for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis International 2007. Volume 18, Number 8, 1023-1031.
3 Navid D. The Adherence Gap: Why Osteoporosis Patients Don’t Continue With Treatment. International Osteoporosis Foundation April 2005.
4 Lazarovici TS et al. Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws: a single center study of 101 patients. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2009 Apr; 67(4):850-5.
5 Gill SB, et al. Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the mandible and maxilla: clinical and imaging features. J Comput Assist Tomogr. 2009 May-Jun; 33(3): 449-54.

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Comments on this article are closed.

  1. Alma Anderson

    Hi Vivien, decided to have a bone density scan .
    It was a total of ten since my last bone scan and after taking phosomax for four years I decided to go off the tablet. My doc says I need to go back onto phosomax or an infusion is recommended. I’m quite happy to stay drug free with your special help and e-mail.
    Many thanks for your helpful information. Alma

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  3. Cytnhia

    I had IV Reclast Aug 2013. The next morning I had horrible muscle and joint pain. Fever, chills, so bad teeth chattered. Headache. I WILL NEVER HAVE THIS POSION AGAIN!!!! I told my M.D.” I would take chances on FX. Eight months after infusion I began to have right rib pain daily. X-ray and Ct scan- negative. Now Nov. 2016 I’m still having right rib pain and at time ,right flank pain. Right groin pain ,now new location of pain.. I feel this drug is dangerous and no one can give an answer for this pain. Its not muscular but bone, as deep ache… Not to mention cost esp. beyond insurance coverage.. Someone is getting fat wallet from 🙁

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  5. Diane

    My Osteoporosis doctor suggested Reclast – and I’m so glad I did the research. He mentioned I would be sick for a while, but this is unacceptable to me. I can’t afford to be ill, so I’m declining this IV med. Even the manufacturer lists one side effect after another. And I understand the ER can’t help because they don’t know what to do on this drug, and it’s recommended to call poison control. Let’s put an Amen to these horror drugs by just saying NO! Kudos to the “Save My Bones” sight.

  6. Linda Newsom

    I was given reclast infusion in December 2015. I wish I knew more about this drug before I took it.
    I woke up the morning after the infusion and when I tried to get up I collapsed next to the bed. I was confused vomiting profusely and could not walk. My daughter called me and I don’t know how but I managed to grab my phone off the nightstand, my daughter was alarmed as all I could do was gurgle. She lives about 6 hours from me so she called the paramedics. I ended up in the ER for the entire day and part of the night. I now suffer from memory loss plus severe bone pain. The doctor who prescribed this drug was not helpful and remarked I have never heard of these kind of side effects! This drug is taking the joy of living from me.

  7. Jan

    Two months ago (11/19/2015) I had the RECLAST INFUSION. Not long thereafter I felt pain in both hips, both shoulders and neck. I have gone from a very active person to one who is riddled with joint pains and causing walking difficulty until Advil kicks in to alleviate them somewhat. So far, Doctors do not think RECLAST is the cause. Will this ever stop?

    • Suzette

      Are you doing better now or no? I have to make a decision about Reclast myself and have been told by a couple of doctors that there should be no validity in folks talking about their experiences like you and yours. Let me know if you think this kind of talking about ourselves and our physical health with osteoporosis is valid or somehow fake. Look forward to hearing from you asap. Thanks! Suzette

      • SGF

        I am in the same position : 54 years old, just diagnosed with bad osteoporosis, family history of osteoporosis but otherwise a picture of health. My mother took Reclast at age 77 and blamed it for 3 years of suffering, but Doctors all felt her prior deteriorating health was the real culprit. Doctors are urging me to take Reclast immediately as my bones are weakening and the convenience of a one and done office visit is tempting. But I don’t want to risk turning into an invalid overnight. I am so torn about this and don’t know what to do.

        • Carol

          To SGF – just my take on Reclast. I am 72 and finally had bone density test In Feb. this year, and do have osteoporosis. Family history – typical background…just had the recommended once a year infusion treatment thinking it would be most convenient. Have always had some sensitivity to meds of one kind or another and this was no exception. My husband and I were concerned that I seemed to have the flu for over a month and joint pain, dizziness, vision deterioration, trouble swallowing…have now read lots of info about Reclast and truly wish I would have left well enough alone. There truly are more damaging side effects than benefits for me with this drug. I was not diligent to research the side effects before agreeing to the infusion. I am really tired of the healthcare providers simply passing this on to us as a safe remedy for bone loss. Not worth it. NOT at all! I have turned into an “OLD” woman in a month’s time! Can’t wait to flush this poison out of my body!

          • Barbara

            How do you flush this out I received IV 2 days ago and have never had such a violent reaction to any meds I have taken. Don’t know what to do. I was not given any information before hand.

  8. Rita Nichols

    I had to have jaw surgery to remove dead bone they try to grind down to good bleeding bone that was two weeks ago now it will be another 3 months before we know if the jawbone has quit dieing from Reclast, it started out one tooth extracted (#3), three weeks later dead bone had spread, I have also lost #2 and area #4 and #5 due to dead bone caused by Reclast

    • Paul

      Help Me – UK
      37- osteoporosis (severe) reclast infusion – osteonecrosis and TMD
      Confused, scared and cognitive skills not in the best shape right now

  9. Rich Panitch

    I am 67. A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Three months ago, I began taking fosomax. I developed stomach pains, and now my doctor wants me to take reclast. He has truly scared me about the terrible effects of a hip or spinal fracture.
    However aftyer reading about the possible side effects of reclast, I am very frightened to have the infusion. I feel like I am caught between a rock and a hard place.

    • Suzette

      Have you been able to find a good solution for your situation? If so, what is that solution that has worked or will work for you? Look forward to hearing from you. Thanks so much! Suzette

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      I understand the conundrum, Rich – but remember, the choice really isn’t between enduring side effects or helping your bones, because the drugs really don’t help your bones in the long run (quite the opposite!). If the side effects concern you, a drug-free option for building bones may be something you’d like to explore. 🙂

      • lili

        Hi,
        I have a question related to bisphosphonate products. I only used one tablet of Osteofos 70 three days ago and then I found about its terrible side effects…Is there any way to get rid of this 70mg bisphosphonate interred my body? I don’t want it to remain in my body 🙁

  10. Lucille Jansen

    After one infusion of Reclast (before Vivian!) is it remotely safe to have a crown lengthening procedure done? what exactly is the risk factor? what can specifically be done to improve the situation?
    Thanks, Lucille

  11. Irene

    My Doctor gave me Reclast. I ask what is the side effect. he said headache. Well when i went to have it done I ask again , what is the side effect to this . He said has no one told you ? I said no . Well he never said any of the things you told me here. I am so for doing it now. I was having trouble walking. If I eat any thing and would walk , it was like my back was going to break. And if i eat any thing cold I would get a back freeze. So I want to thank you for telling me what the side effect are.
    but I think a Doctor should tell you all the side effect. Am I right?
    Irene

    • Irene

      I was trying to say, I am sorry for having it done now.And if i eat any thing and try to walk my back felt like it is breaking.

  12. gail

    Hi ,
    Thanks for your comments.I just had a reclast infusion-trouble with the jaw.Might have a tooth infection.What to do?.Really scared.Drug says you can not take a tooth out.Thanks,Gail

  13. nellie teske

    lets load up the internet with alternatives to this as yet long term effect of reclast not known med. I think its a terrible injustice to those of us who hear the words “bone thinning” to think as we set getting the IV treatment that we’re doing the right thing for our health. I’m terribly upset and frustrated that Patient information prior to this treatment not totally spelled out for us by our trusted care givers. Unless we all over 50 years old demand alternatives we’ll just have these unstable meds offered as our treatments. I often wonder why our elders werent so affected. Perhaps more nutrition in food. Known fact soil depleted now days.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      I understand, Nellie – it is truly frustrating to be in that position! You also make a good point about soil nutrients and the nutrition value of food.

  14. magalas girl

    this is the second remark I’ve left…do you answer them? I was diagnosed with osteoporosis following a wrist which broke when I fell on ice, The wrist shattered and surgical repair with a metal plate was necessary. The diagnosis didn’t really surprise me or my physician…I had been on Rmeicade for psoriatic arthritis for 6 years, was very small framed and underweight, and my mother had it.

    While I (and my husband, who is a dentist) would love to believe that I don’t need a bisphosphenate, I can also remember how much pain I felt with with this one broken wrist. I don;t want this to happen again.

    • Dale

      Ikniw yiu posted this in 2012, but I’d like to share my experience. I’ve taken Boniva, Alendronate, and Reclast. I do have GERD abd asthma. Anyway in spite if all the drugs, I still slipped on pea gravel on a concrete driveway and broke both my hip and elbow. I chose not to repeat Reclast this year.

  15. Joyce

    took Actonel for 5 years. first once a month and then once a week. the drug made no difference in the osteo scores but then I could no longer eat or drink anyhing but water.. I quit the Actonel.. Now the metabolic clinic says I have serious osteoporosis and have to have checkups for vitamin d. turns out I am allergic to wool and vitamin d 3 is made from wool. I am trying d 2 which is plant based but may not be able to tolerate it either. can’t get vitamin D from the sun as I live in Canada where the sun’s rays are not strong enough. Have many food allergies,scleroderma (CREST), osteoporosis and fibromyalgia. If I could show improvement in the osteo I think the doctors would listen to me as I have such problems with prescription drugs. why does a drug have to be the answer? I cannot follow your diet due to allergies and I am allergic to something in the supplements too…………whether the carrier or the supplement. Please help me. this is my second request to you for help and I would appreciate any advice. I cannot eat pinapple. I cannot eat many of the foods listed and my muscles are so weak that exercise is difficult if not impossible. I amm allergic to local anaesthetics too so dentists are hard to find. II am 63 years old. I do not feel I will have a say in whether I get infusion acllasta. Prolia messes with the immune system so the dr won’t give me that one thankfully, as scleroderma is an auto immune disease.

    • Janet

      Over here in England, I recently found a new yogart by ‘Yoplailat’ which gives 100% daily requirement of vitamin D.It’s called Calin and I’m trying it out! Don’t know if it’s available in Canada! I’m really a vegetarian and 69yrs. old! Had polymyalgia in 2007 and you name it, I took it for nearly 5yrs. Due to the Save our bones program, I stopped all medication, including steroids, and now think I’m winning! It feels good to be doing it naturally!

  16. jack cohen

    I have 2.7 and 2.9 T scores, no meds, can not fix myself. Do lots of resistance strenght training, follow Meditranean diet, need help

    • Ella

      What are my alternatives if I choose not to take reclast? Is there a natural treatment?

  17. AD

    How long do the side effects last?
    And how long after the infusion of Reclast, does it take for any of them to set in?

    I ask because I received Reclast in March or April… Am wondering what the latest time span would be, between the infusion and the onset of symptoms.

    Thank you

  18. Tillie Berger

    Hi Vivian – I am waiting for an 3-mail in response to my message I left last week. Thanks,Tillie Berger

  19. louise nelson

    on feb 3 i rec a infusion of reclast. from that day to today my life has become a second by second volcano of pain & extrem flu like feelings .,along with sharp head pains that come & go ,brest pain at points,hair loss&?oss of any quality to my life. my long bones feel as though they will explode at any time & just last week the pain also went to my joints. i did every thing to the letter befor the infusion & since. iam seeing my reg dr. & a pain spec. & have hade a ton of test & a full body scan. the co hase done nothing to help & they have been playing the paper game with me & my dr. without any advice as to what will make this go away. iam mad & scaired & wish i had never taken this dangerious drug witch i dont know how to rid my body of & the co has not taken any responsability for there crime against my body. if any one knows any way to rid my self of this & get my life back please let me know . also any one who also has a badreaction & is doing anything legal about it ,forward info. help. this is wrong.

  20. denise watson

    I got disgusted with taking monthy IV’s of zometa (reclast) and stopped on my own and changed drs. He wants to put me on Xgeva (Prolia) every month. I have breast cancer metastasized to bone. Is Xgeva any safer than any of the other osteoporosis drugs?
    Thx, Denise

  21. ann

    why the second Acalsta??? You are only supposed to take it once a year.

  22. Eglee

    DEAR VIVIAN, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP AND INTEREST TO HELP OTHERS…I AM EATING MOSTLY THE FOOD THAT YOU ADVICE TO EAT FOR INCREASING BONE DENSITY NATURALLY. PLEASE, COULD YOU SEND ME A LIST OF THEM TO SEE IF I AM DOING WHAT I SHOULD…? PLEASE, THANK YOU VIVIAN.
    MY DR. ADVICE AGAIN TO TAKE THE MEDICATION ONCE A WEEK, BUT I DO NOT WANT TO. I AM SORRY I CAN’T GET THE BOOK “SAVE OUR BONES PROGRAM”. I AM A SENIOR WITH SCARS MEANS.

  23. George Gesch

    Does this program work with someone who has been diagnosed with metastatic bone lesions in the hip from prostate cancer? The oncologist suggests bisphosphonate infusions, however, the side effects seem to outway the benefits.

    Thanks for your input.

  24. Karis Alderson

    Have had every osteo drug from Miacalcin to Fosamax, Boniva pills and infusions, Forteo daily shots, Actonel, and Reclast infusions (2). Fifteen years of treatment NO MORE! No longer can I eat what I wish (never had trouble before), and I’m still having side-effects from the second Reclast infusion in May of 2009. MANY SIDE EFFECTS. Had to use a recliner for two months with little sleep. All kinds of pain. Kidneys slowed, skeleton burned, rashes, fever, acid reflux (even though that was not to happen), burning eyes, sleep depravation, and didn’t “pass the blood test (150 minumum and scored 140) for tooth extraction because of osteonecrosis. Had to have tooth out anyway. HORRENDOUS EXPERIENCES!

  25. ramona pino

    hi I been doing almost everything from your book saveourbones program. i stop taking the actonel pills is been about 4 or 5 months i feel good more stronger i going to continue eating healty and doing exercises i will keep you update thank you

    • ramona pino

      when should i go for a new bone density text ? to see if iam doing better

  26. Marion

    My doctor says the only cases of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw and Actonel, Fosamax, etc. that she has been able to find are in people who were having chemo therapy at the same time.
    In spite of this, I still won’t take the drugs but try to follow the Save Our Bones program instead. My doctor is not impressed. Too bad, so sad.

  27. Starman

    As a home health provider for a patient with type one myotonic dystrophy, DM!, I can say that that the last two time she received the yearly infusions she cam away with swollen arms and hands, one went down the other never did even though the infusions have stopped.

  28. Chloa Smith

    It seems as if they go from one high risk drug to another. I had first hand experience form actenol, so my thoughts are, no more for me.
    I’d much rather try to do all I can with managing my diet and exercise. I so appreciat all the information you give us.

  29. mina jamshidi

    I agree with you completely. The best way to stay healthy is the natural way.
    Thank you for every thing you are doing.
    Mina

  30. Jan

    Thanks for a your great information, but how long before any improvement shows on the Dexa scan? Would it take longer than 12 months?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Jan,

      It’s impossible to predict; there are too many individual variables. However, and depending on many things (including whether you took osteoporosis drugs), a minimum of 6 months is a prudent guess.

      • Sue W.

        And what if you’ve taken Fosamax for 7 years, stopped, and are now following the program? How long before positive results show up on Dexascan??

        • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

          Hi Sue,

          It’s still impossible to predict. There are just too many individual variables and there’s no straight line progression. We can’t say “if you took Fosamax for 7 years you’ll see improvement in X months; if you took it for 8 years, you’ll see improvement in X=1 months. It just doesn’t work that way.

  31. Alice Richards

    Please publish some letters from people who have used your food plan and have gained bone. We learn nothing from people who are asking questions with no answers.

    Alice

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Alice,

      You’ll find several testimonials from people who’ve had success with the program at https://saveourbones.com/program/. And if you search the blog comments, you’ll find many more comments from members of our community who have seen improvements in their bone health.

  32. eileen wrede

    i’m trying to get the free copy of your book as mentioned above.

    • Customer Support

      Hi Eileen,

      If you’re talking about Vivian’s free Natural Bone Building Guide, all you have to do is enter your first name and email address in the form on the right side of the page and then click the “Get it Free” button. 🙂

  33. JEAN

    Vivian,

    I underwent 6 weeks of Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy to shrink a malignant hemorridal tumor; then surgery to remove the tumor; then 6 more months of Chemotherapy.
    I am in remission of the cancer, but after a few months I started getting “pelvic insufficiency fractures” and was told I needed to take bisphonates. I took Actonel for 4 months (once monthly) and Boniva 1 month. I had every listed side effect from the drug companies, plus the side effects I found listed by other sources on the internet. I had to go to the emergency room in the middle of the night with the swelling in my jaw, face and lips. I was then prescribed Evista, and was told it would be safe because it didn’t have bisphonates in it. I had all the listed side effects of Evista, too. So I quit taking it.
    My doctor checked my vitamin D and the test result was .3 (not even one point). I am now taking Vitamin D, plus all the other vitamins you recommended in your book. I’m going on your diet. Am still limping from one of the fractures, so haven’t done much with the exercises yet, but hope to be able to do soon.
    From what I have read, the chemo and radiation played a big part in weakening my bones, and those treatments, along with the bisphonates have comletely destroyed my resistance to any of these side effects.

    At this point, my only hope is for following your recommended diet and exercises.

    Your input is appreciated.

    Jean

  34. Gerri D.

    I get so angry when I read about all the intimidation and scary tactics that are being used by Doctors!! I went through the same thing with my Dr.and after suffering the horrible effects of Fosamax and Boniva I was not going to be bullied into more drug assault on my body. Thank you Vivian for all your wonderful information on bone loss and for giving us the real way to let nature deal with this problem.The correct food and supplements can help the body heal itself.I say thank you again to you Vivian for saving my life,and for all of you who are trying to figure out what to do: BUY VIVIANS BOOK!

  35. Teresa

    I really don’t know what to do. I’m 41 I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis in May of 2010, started the Fosomax and stopped it a month later. I have osteoarthritis, no cartilage in either knee, grinding bone on bone and need two knee replacements. I was told it’s due to being active in sports all my life. I’m in pain all the time and now trying to deal with Osteoporosis on top of that gets trying at times. Any suggestions would be great!!

  36. Nu Ly

    After read your article, Reclast injection, it’s an awful drug.

    I hope your natural way for bone health spread
    quickly in the world, so it can reduce many
    victims.

    Thank you for your kindness.

  37. catherine smith

    Hi Vivian,
    Thank you, very much, for the info on Reclast.I had thought about having those injections, at one time,but so glad, I did not do that. I am off, all Osteoporosis drugs and thankful for that.I just read your book and will try doing, what you suggest. Thank you for all your help.It is really, appreciated.

  38. Patricia Rhodes

    I don’t have to read about Reclast; I have already been one of its victims. I received the infusion on July 28, 2009. By September I truly thought that I might die. Every part of my body was in excruciating pain, and I was so weak that I couldn’t walk through my house without clinging to the walls and furniture. It didn’t get any better; to the contrary, it got worse with each passing day. I resolved the problem with something from the health food store, and by March of 2010 I was somewhat back to normal, and I’m continuing to heal. I did not go for the scheduled second infusion in July 2010. I have talked to many of my friends who were contemplating a Reclast infusion, and convinced them to think it over VERY carefully and get as much info as possible. Most of them have decided not to get the infusion. This entire class of drugs is dangerous, and WE are the guinea pigs!

    • D Fellows

      PATRICIA,

      WHAT DID YOU USE FROM THE HEALTH STORE – I AM DESPERATE TO TRY TO FIND SOMETHING THAT MIGHT HELP MY FATHER.

    • D Fellows

      My father hadthe Aclasta infusion a week ago today, I have never seen him so ill. He has been in exruciating pain in all his joints, particularly his neck, back, shoulders and chest. It started with a high fever, sleeplessness, and sore limbs, and progressively got worse.

      He already suffers from Ankalosing Spondylitus (fusion of the spine) and heart failure. I cannot believe that his consultant would put him through this terrible discomfort.

      Today he can hardly move he is so much pain, he has suffered severe pain throughtout his life coping with the spondylitus and then the heart failure, but this drug is dreadful. It may help sufferers of osteoporosis but anyone with spondylitus should avoid it like the plague.

      WARNING: TO EVERYONE CONSIDERING HAVING THIS INFUSION – DO YOUR HOMEWORK AND DON’T JUST LET THE DOCTORS TREAT YOU LIKE A GUINEA PIG – IT REALLY IS NOT WORK THE INCREDIBLE PAIN THIS DRUG CAN PUT YOU IN.

      • Amber Wilson

        My name is Amber and my Mother passed after taking the drug Reclast. She received the infusion on Oct, 1, 2009. By Oct 9,2009 she became so disoriented and confused. Pain in her joints, vomitting, nausea. she was admitted to 3 hospitals that preformed several tests to rule out any other possible problems. Everything came back normal. While at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis Mo, the doctors there concluded that Reclast was the cause of what my mother was going through. We are in the process of trying to file a lawsuit against the pharmacy company and we are looking for anyone else who has had similar situations with this awful drug. My mom passed away on Dec. 1,2009, three months after receiving the infusion.

        • Patricia Glover

          I had reclast done 2 weeks ago tomorrow. Excactly 8 days I was put in hospital with fever over 103, bloo pressure high and my pulse was 123. I was aching all over like flu like. My joints in my fingers were swelled and almost to the point I thought they were going to pop. Stiff neck, bad headaches,and feeling as I had no energy. Was sent home next day due to no fever and all blood work came back negative. He failed to tell me that I was deyrated and had blood in my urine. Sent me home, i was back in office very next day as sick as a dog. Still sick. Put me on antibotic. Still running low grade fever, cant get fever to leave, Headaches are so bad. Still have aches and Pains, Wants to ignore me. I call ed yesterday and left message. No return phone call still. Like the wont to push me under the rug. My pulse rate is still running 111 everyday. Doesnt seened to be concerned. I have never been so sick. My muscles and joints ache all the time. This is my story and this si the truth. Been a week tomorrow since put in hospital. No one wants to talk labout it. ??

        • sandra

          My name is Sandra, and i have had nacrosis of the jaw. My oncologist set me up for infusion with “Zometa” She put me on Zometa every 6 months, after chemo for breast cancer. I was told Zometa is a good drug to treat osteiopinia, because drugs by mouth would cause me more problems with my GERD. I have had a total of 5 infusions. I went to the OSM Dental Dr.’s at the county hospitalthree times to have 2 teeth removed. I have been turned down 3 times because of the nacrosis in 2009 and 2010 2011. I went to Baylor Dental college in 2011 in Dallas, TX. Also, they will not touch my teeth. After 6 months of antiobiotics, the infection went doormat. I have been told by TWO Medical DR. that it TAKES 13 YEARS FOR ZOMETA TO RID ITSELF OF MY BODY. I am a walking time bomb for ONJ. No one ever told me until I had the infection, that it was a side affect from Zometa. The infecton went from my teeth to the right side of my body; including shoulder, neck, and up into my head. I was one sick puppy and did not know why. THERE IS NO SAFE DRUG TO TAKE FOR BONE LOSS!

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Patricia,

      I’m so sorry that you’ve been added to the long list of osteoporosis drugs victims. I am certain that you will recover fully, and I wish you a happy and healthy future.

      Be well,

      Vivian

  39. Andrea Moore

    I hope the natural approach to bone health will work for everyone as the medications that currently address bone loss are strong and unforgiving in their horrible side effects.

    Thank you for the information. It is very helpful in dealing intelligently with our general health and bone loss issues.
    Best wishes to Vivian and to everyone,
    Andrea

  40. LESLIE

    Hi! Vivian,

    This Was A VERY GOOD Article, But Scary! Especially About Some Of The Side Effects Of The Reclast! If I Found Out I Had Osteoporosis; I Would Never Use Reclast Nor Boniva, Just From Those Side Effects They Have.
    Well, Got To Go!

    LOVE, MS. L.

  41. gloria

    Hi Vivian,
    Does Vitamin K2 really prevent and remove calcium deposits (plaque) from arteries and deposit it in the bone ? I just learned that if a person has artery problems, measuring Homocysteine in the blood will frequently provide clear evidence that Homocysteine is causing the problem, not cholesterol. Is this true ?
    Gloria

  42. gloria

    HI Vivian,
    Two weeks ago I went for my Dexa Scan and was told the results were being faxed over to my Doctor and that I would be able to get a copy in one week. Today I went to my Doctor’s Office and was denied. The clerk told me that I had to wait until I got my next Physical which is in May.She said she was just doing her job! I thought I had a right to know and this was very disturbing to me. What’s RIGHT ?
    GLORIA

  43. Pari Ahour

    My Very Dear Vivian,
    You can’t imagine how much benefit I got and am still getting from your informative book, although I have not read all of it.

    They call me ‘health nut’ because I avoid everything which is not natural. I am 80 years old, no problem except hypothyroidism for which I get Levothyroxine 1.12. Bone density is as good as a 60-year-old woman. But two years ago I lost my husband who was very dear to me and since then I began having joint pain on my right knee and left hip. The x-ray showed ‘severe osteo arthritis’, although I don’t have pain except when I walk more than ten minutes and also when I go up and down the stairs. I am supposed to have a knee surgery first and then later a hip surgery. I wonder if you recommend it for me or not. Also, I have always hoped there might be some natural stuff to substitute Levothyroxine. what do you recommend?
    With my best wishes for your success, Pari

    • Margaret Kelley

      Thank you for the information on Strontium. I am seeing a very well known natural doctor that provides me with natural hormones and other compounds. My bone density was a question and my regular doctor had recommended Fosomax. My natural doctor had an explosive reaction to those “bone curing” drugs…said they just made unnatural deposits outside the bone that ended up damaging the integrity of the bone. I was so thanful for him because it kept me off Boniva, etc. However he did recommend Strontium. I have had an incurable rash on my stomach and so after reading your input on Strontium, I think I have found the source of my rash. It is much improved since dropping the pill!

  44. Shula

    Thank you Vivian.

    Shula

  45. Kristine Marquier-Varzal

    Dear Vivian,
    Thankyou for your on-going research on “Bone health”,in particular the “NEW” alternative called Reclast via of IV injection. Sounds great but after reading the information,it has disastrous effects upon the body. I read your book and loved your natural remedies to build bone. Keep up the great work you are doing. You are an inspiration to all of us who read your “Save our Bones Program”. Thankyou for sharing your story with all who read your information about bone building drugs!!

  46. Michael

    Hi Vivian,

    I raised few important for me questions and could not get a chance to be answered. Am I missing it maybe? Do you have any archived stuff where I could do a search?

    Thank,
    Michael

  47. joyce

    I bought the recommended New Chapter take care calcium & minerals…I started it a week ago. Do you think by 12 April, ther wil be significant results? Am trying hard to eatmore alkaline foods & less acidity foods. Do you think taking COQ10 wil help. I have not yet, but am going to.
    Joyce S.

  48. Diane Matyskiewicz

    I have both osteoporosis and osteopenia, have refused to take the drugs but have also been told that I am high risk for fractures. I have been taking Bone-Up (very popular in Canada but no longer available because of something it contains). I ran out (cost – $50. in Canada) and did without but am feeling pain in my lower back and legs especiallly. I do not have your book because of cost but would like to get it. I have inquired about your opinion on this supplement but have not heard anything from you or anyone else about it. I would really like to know because to date it is the only one that has helped me. My mom tells me that it is good to take any calcium and should not have to be costly to be effective. When I showed it to my doctor (100% advocate for drugs including the nasty drugs for bones)she did not advocate it. I would really like to have an answer to the effectiveness of Bone-Up. I would like to get the book only and should have bought it when you had a damaged lot. Any chance that you are having a special on this sometime in the near future? WOuld really like to hear from you or any of the subscribers on the Bone-Up. Your help is much appreciated.

    • Marlene

      Diane, One more thing. I take less then their recommended dosage because I try to eat an alkaline based diet 80/20.

    • Bev Eschmann

      Diana,I have not tried BoneUp but I would suggest you go to IHERB.com to learn about it. There are probably testamonies as well as a description of it. Good luck.

  49. Annemarie

    It’s one year this week that I made the biggest mistake of my life and had the Aclasta IV. I was 51 and was told my bone density results showed severe osteoporosis and high risk for a fracture. I allowed myself to be intimidated and frightened into accepting the drug. I care for my elderly parents and the endocrinologist told me (among other things)I could walk out the door, slip on the ice, break a hip and then what would happen to my parents. Bullying tactics but they worked. He also offered Forteo but I had the good sense to turn it down. For the first 2 weeks after the Aclasta IV I had a killer headache that didn’t let up. The joint and muscle pain followed. I had an appointment next week for my second round of Aclasta but needless to say I cancelled it and tore up the prescription.
    No one has been able to tell me how long the effects of Aclasta will remain in my system and that worries me. At what point will my osteoclasts and osteoblasts be turned back on? Regardless, this past year I have been following a natural path including diet, supplements, weights and vibration therapy.
    I’ve learned my lesson (the hard way)and will never allow myself to be intimidated into taking a drug again.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Annemarie,

      If you haven’t yet, check out my article titled “Stop Taking Osteoporosis Drugs? It’s Never Too Late”, where I explain in detail what happens to the drugs inside your body.

      And if you’d like to accelerate the elimination of the drugs and accelerate your bone-building capacity, you might want to try my osteoporosis drug detox program Rapid Cleanse. You can get it here:

      https://saveourbones.com/rapid-cleanse/

      To your natural lifestyle!

      Vivian

  50. Allison

    Those drugs are like taking a time bomb just waiting to happen. They could not pay me to
    take them…. Vivian your the best thing that
    has happened to us women. Thanks for all the
    great tips and articles, I enjoy reading them,
    and look forward to the future ones.
    Warm Regards, Allison***

  51. Angela Wynne-Robinson

    Thank you for this article. I too was recommended to take Reclast following my second bone scan, but after the very bad side effects from the oral medication ‘Actonel’. I was afraid of possible worse side effects from an infusion giving me a greater dose.

    Thank you so much for explaining what these drugs do and giving us the opportunity to decide. I am trying to follow your advice on healthy living, and loved the Meal down the Mall!. Angela

  52. Marcia

    What do you think of Fostum..taken 2 times daily?????? Help Marcia

  53. Duann

    So is Reclast a better drug
    for our bones is it saft to take ?

    • Kennetha Gaebler

      A year apart, I foolishly had two infusions of Reclast, and half my hair fell out. Merck doesn’t list that as a side effect but in my case it was.

      • nellie teske

        oh yes—hairloss big time with reclast. No doubt about that.

    • marianne

      Did you not read the article???? Hello!

  54. Erlinda Siatron

    I worked for health industry (retired now) and I know reclast, one of the wonderful medicines prescribed by our Specialty Clinic. I refused to take prescribed medicines. I follow your instructions on the Save our Bones Book. Thank you very much for the information for Reclast.

  55. Trudy

    I am glad I stopped taking ACTONEL after doing some research on the internet & coming across Vivian’s book for a natural approach to Osteo.
    Don’t be fooled & manipulated by your doctors!
    Cheers
    Trudy

  56. Elan Van Ness

    Thank goodness you are here to warn all about Reclast. Don’t ever stop.

    • Marie

      I am so happy to read this article from Vivian on the new drug Reclast. I have consistently refused to take any medications since my bad experience with Fosamax. I had an appointment with my doctor two weeks ago and he told me that Reclast was the answer for my osteoporosis. When I told him I was not sure about it, he got upset and asked me why I even came to see him. I said I had come to have a
      DEXA to see whether I had made any improvements by following a strictly natural regimen. Since my last DEXA was in May 2010, he advised that I do another one in May of this year. He told me that if the results of my DEXA are worse, I would have no other choice, otherwise, I will soon have fractures. I am in a real dilemna.

      • Katherine

        I have tried all the natural options in supplements as well as the walking, strength training, and impact exercises for the last 6 months. Had my DEXA yesterday, and have contined to have loss in right hip “neck”. Please give suggestions….if possible, because I do not want to take any Rx for bone building. HELP!!!! Katherine

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