Y&R Discussion Group -- Actonel

Y&R Discussion Group

Topic: Actonel

Topic Posted by: Goldilocks
Date Posted: Tue Jan 19 20:02:00 2010
Additional Comments:

This is my first post on the personal topics board. I went to the endocrinologist yesterday for a routine check-up. I have underactive thyroid and have been on synthroid for years. At the same office they had done a bone density test back in September. I asked the doctor for the results. He said I had bone loss in my hip. It hasn't reached the osteoporosis stage yet but the results show a reduction in bone over time. I think my last test was at least two years ago. He recommended taking Actonel and gave me a sample along with a prescription for the once a month type of pill. Well today I went online and read really upsetting stories of side effects that women had experienced. Now I'm very concerned and freaked out about taking this potentially dangerous medication. By the way I'm 65 years old and i have very bad arthritis especially in my knees. I already take Celebrex for that along with medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Are any of you taking the once a month dose of Actonel? If so can you tell me how your body reacts to this drug? People have reported flu-like symptoms, joint pain, jaw pain, upset stomach - the list goes on and on. Naturally I'm nervous.

Posted by: Boniva User
Date posted: Wed Jan 20 10:27:19 2010
Message:

I've taken Boniva once a month for 2 years, have had no ill effects. Am age 68. Mother had osteoporosis that bent her nearly double. I run and lift weights. So far, so good. The worst part is waiting an hour before that first cup of coffee. LOL As Ingy said, they have to tell you EVERY possible side effect. Knowlege is power. Good luck.

Posted by: ingyandbert
Date posted: Wed Jan 20 8:42:12 2010
Message:
Like many medications, you have to weigh the risks and benefits. Is the risk of side effects less than the benefit of the treatment? Is a particular side effect something you can live with if it means resolution of your other symptoms? I've taken medications from time to time that have a long list of side effects of which I experienced absolutely none. It's important to know what the risks are but at the same time don't psych yourself out.

Posted by: BessBeau
Date posted: Tue Jan 19 21:11:35 2010
Message:
I've taken Actonel for 8 yrs. (once a week) and what you need to know is that they have to tell you what possibly, but not probably, might happen....take it and if the once a month pill is too strong, drop back to the once a week pill....it is a good drug, IMO.

Replies: (list all replies)

Forgot to add, take Synthroid, have arthritis in both knees, but take a *gel shot* that acts as a cushion,...also , take Cholestrol med (Lipitor).....good luck ! BB**