Osteoporosis

Answers for your specific questions.

Wondering about your health? Confused by what you’ve read? Browse our Ask the Nurse answer archive to find answers to many women's health questions and concerns. All answers are from a Cleveland Clinic women's health nurse.

Ask the Nurse Archive

Osteoporosis Medication

June 3, 2015 at 2:40pm

I am 66 years old and have osteoporosis. My primary care doctor suggested Reclast, but my gynecologist suggested Prolia. I have never been treated before for osteoporosis. I also have had a portion of my thyroid removed 7 months ago.

I have two questions:

  1. Are these two drugs the same?
  2. How will treatment affect my thyroid?

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Peri-Menopause and Osteoporosis

January 8, 2015 at 4:00pm

I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in my hips in 2007. I am still peri-menopausal but have been taking medication since that time. My last bone density test showed osteoporosis is now in my spine. My physician doesn’t think it is necessary to change my treatment.

I started on Fosamax, but after 4 months I started having side effects, so I was switched to Actonel. I am not due for another year for a bone density. I don’t like to eat dairy foods, but I eat a yogurt every day. I take 500mg of calcium with 200iu D3 3 times a day.

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Strengthening a Woman's Bones

January 7, 2015 at 3:00pm

I had a bone density recently and was diagnosed with osteoporosis. I just started alendronate. In addition to walking, rowing and using the elliptical, what else can I do to strengthen my bones?

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Foods to Help Strengthen Bones

April 22, 2014 at 3:08pm

What are some food choices that can help strengthen my bones?

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Bone Density Test

December 6, 2012 at 1:37pm

How often should a woman (64 years old) have a bone density test?

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Fosamax

December 4, 2012 at 4:41pm

My doctor has just started me on Fosamax. What is the latest information on taking this drug long and short term? I have had bone density testing done about four years apart and my doctor says that because of my family history and a change in the thinning of my bones, I am at risk of possible fractures as I age. I am currently 65.

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Bone Density Tests

May 4, 2012 at 3:33pm

My friend just had a bone density test. What kind of test is this and do I need it?

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Osteoporosis and Menopause

July 22, 2011 at 5:20pm

I am one year into menopause and am age 50. My new gynecologist told me that I am at risk for Osteoporosis because I am tall and thin and have been taking thyroid hormone for the past 25 years.

Would it be worthwhile for me to have a bone density test to establish a baseline measurement? Unfortunately, due to severe back problems, for the past 10 years I have not done the recommended weight bearing activities that would have helped maintain my bone density and I am concerned. Thanks for your advice!

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Osteoporosis Drugs

July 11, 2011 at 6:35pm

I recently heard that osteoporosis drugs can actually increase the risk of fractures in older women. Should I stop taking this medication?

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