My DEXA scan shows osteoporosis. Is it due to Fosamax use?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Let me explain thoroughly. Past use of Fosamax (Alendronate). You took it for more than five years, which is the usual upper safe limit. Long-term use can sometimes cause side effects like jaw problems or unusual thigh bone fractures, but these are uncommon.

Since you stopped years ago, your current osteoporosis is more due to natural aging and menopause-related bone loss rather than past Fosamax.

Supplements like calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium are important building blocks for bone, but they alone do not reverse osteoporosis. A plant-based supplement is safe to try, but it works best as supportive care, not as the main treatment.

I recommend you aim for about 1200 mg of calcium (diet supplement), 800 to 1000 IU (international units) of Vitamin D daily, unless your doctor adjusts.

I suggest you do a few lifestyle modifications and regular weight-bearing exercise (walking, light weights, yoga, balance training) to help strengthen bones. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.

Fall prevention at home is crucial, since fractures often come from simple falls. Medical treatment with a confirmed diagnosis of osteoporosis on DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), prescription therapy is usually recommended to reduce fracture risk.

Other helpful options include:

1. Bisphosphonates such as Fosamax (Alendronate sodium) and Reclast (Zoledronic acid) are often given for a limited time.

2. Denosumab injection every six months.

3. Anabolic agents (Teriparatide, Abaloparatide, Romosozumab) are used in severe cases to actually build bone.

I hope this will help you.

For more queries, reach out to me anytime.

Thank you.