FORTEO

[litliwlowa]

I could not tolerate Boniva had a flu like reaction.  I am nervous about Forteo, but know I am in trouble with the fracture and my bone density in 3.5 d's below the mean, which is bad...  Thanks for all the responses, it is good to hear it has worked for some, it seems like it would have less side effects since it is a synthetic parathyroid hormone, which should be something our bodies, at least not synthetic, are used too, but it must be the amount?

Good questions, Mollie. And speaking of parathyoid hormone, factoring in your osteoporosis - is someone checking your serum calcium, vitamin D levels periodically?

At this point, my osteo management is monitoring PTH, Calcium, D and supplementing accordingly. Been tried on all the osteo treatments and they simply don't like me or my body doesn't like them at all.

I sure do understand your concerns on both sides of the equation. Ultimately, it is your decision to try it or not try it.

Side stepping a little, presumably your doctors have reviewed any meds you are on with respect to any that affect bone mass, in the event some may need to be changed? To miminize accelerating the progression of osteoporosis.

Given how nervous you are about trying Forteo, would the prescribing doctor be receptive to an extended office visit so you can more fully discuss your concerns? If so, that would be my suggestion at this point.

Your concerns are valid, and you have some good questions that need answers by which you can make an informed decision, and your doctor who is most knowledgeable about your specific medical situation is probably best equiped to help you make the best decision for you.

I couldn't tolerate Boniva either. So yes, I can certainly understand your nervousness about Forteo.

But what also weighs into your decision? Is that for now it's apparently spontaneous rib fracture. Painful for sure.

Not to scare you, as I can see your are plenty scared as it is. But weighs into your decision to try Forteo. For now it's your ribs. Down the road, could be your spine.

That's why my leaning would be give Forteo a try.

Of all the osteo treatments I've been tried on, while it took me nearly two months to have the "oh duh" realization it was the Forteo causing my symptoms at the time, certainly during that two months there was SOME improvement.

And SOME improvement is better than nothing.

Hugs

Amanda