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Posted 2/23/2012 12:42 AM (GMT 0)
Well, today I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. I've been off and on, mostly on PPIs for roughly two years. I did all the right things, took calcium, D-3, etc.

I'm a bit surprised by the dx. Although osteoporosis in my genetic makeup, I was taken aback by it.

Now I have to decide what kind of treatment I will ask my doctor for. When his nurse called, she said he wanted to put me on Reclast IV, the once a year infusion - I told her I wanted to research it and other drugs. Guess where I'm starting?!

Have any of you fellow-sufferers been diagnosed with osteo after taking PPIs?

Blessing,
Cme

Post Edited (chaoticme) : 2/22/2012 5:54:29 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 2/23/2012 4:57 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Cme,

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis.  I have not been diagnosed with osteoperosis, but rather, osteopenia, which was diagnosed a couple years ago and fortunately it hasn't progressed.

I have used PPIs for probably 15 years, in addition to far too many steroids for my asthma (especially before my surgery when my lungs were in terrible shape).  Both of these are hard on bones, so I'm definitely at risk.

Since I have a very sensitive and reactive stomach, should my bone issues progress, my PCP (who's known me for 30 years, and understands my body) thinks Reclast would be the best option for me, since it does not go through the GI tract.

Have you tried the exercise route?  Walking is great, and of course weight machines/free weights are very helpful.  I think it's critical to helping get bones built back up. 

Good luck with your decision!

Denise

 

Posted 2/23/2012 4:09 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the reply Denise. I'm taking some time to decide which route to take.

I need to avoid the GI tract! I have enough problems as it is. I'm concerned about Reclast as I read that it can cause A-Fib. There are so many drugs that cause me to have palps. I am really concerned about having something in my system that will last a year.

My friend told me her alternative doctor, (MD from a highly respected medical school) had a pharmacist compound bioidentical hormone cream for her to rub on, and take 5000 iu D and 200 to 500 mg magnesium. I'm going to talk to my PCP about this also.

I've taken calcium citrate and D-3 for years, exercised/walked, ate right except for the last four months of last year when my little dog was very ill with cancer. My heart was breaking all the while knowing I'd have to euthanize her before the pain became severe, MAJOR STRESS (I'm a real dog-person). She didn't leave my side. I had a tremendous amount of stress from this and other family matters.

The only thing I really blame on the osteo is the PPI. I think it threw me over the edge. I had osteopenia for six years prior to this dx.

Thank you again Denise, I really appreciate your reply and I'm glad to know your doctor seems to like Reclast.

Blessings,
Cme
Posted 2/23/2012 4:18 PM (GMT 0)
You have to get into the gym and start running and lifting weights.

The harder the run and the heavier the weights, the more bone mass and density is added to your frame.

I had thinning bones from huge steroid doses following sinusitis and asthma, but I reversed all of it through intensive exercise.
Posted 2/23/2012 5:39 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Silas,

Good advice.  I've made to the gym for cardio, but haven't added weights, which I know are essential.

Denise

Posted 2/23/2012 9:13 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you Silas.

I'm glad you can say you "had" thinning bones. Were you diagnosed with osteo?

I'm 5'2", small boned, avg weight, my mom had a hip fracture, I'm Caucasian, took (taking) PPIs for 2 years and went through surgical menopause at the age of 39. Perfect candidate for the Big O!

I am exercising to a DVD put out by the NIA and just ordered a treadmill. The exercise does include weights.

Next Wednesday I have an appointment to discuss my options with my PCP. I really want to avoid bisphosphonates if at all possible.

Blessings,
Cme

Post Edited (chaoticme) : 2/23/2012 2:16:28 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 2/23/2012 10:59 PM (GMT 0)
Good luck, Cme!

I can also add early menopause to my list of things that put me at risk.

Here's hoping we can both improve our bone density.

Take care,

Denise

Posted 2/23/2012 11:48 PM (GMT 0)
cme, I am sorry to hear your news. It will likely be my news next year unless I get off my ppi soon. Most you have said is true for me except I am approaching just one year on ppis. I have worked my way down a couple notches, from 80 Mg Nexium to 40 Mg prilosec, and plan to continue in this direction.

Post Edited (sunbeam48) : 2/23/2012 5:31:09 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 2/24/2012 12:22 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you Denise. Hang in there and keep doing all the right things.

Sunbeam, thank you. Good for you!

I think I'll taper off my PPI gradually then get on Zantac. I have no idea how or if this will work but PPIs are killing me.

Blessing,
Cme
Posted 2/24/2012 12:36 AM (GMT 0)
Yes, Zantec, Gavison, Pepto Bismol, licorice and roobios teas are all in my arsenal so far. I wont rule out an otc ppi for short term intermittent use. I think I will be successful but it won't be easy.
Posted 2/24/2012 3:34 PM (GMT 0)
I have the same arsenal except for the tea. I have Chamomile tea on hand. I will keep pantoprazole (Protonix) but will only use it for a brief time if at all. I'm praying I won't have to.

Hope we can compare progress here and there. :o)

Blessings,
Cme
Posted 2/24/2012 6:18 PM (GMT 0)
I'm subscribed to the Koufman diet thread. I will always respond to posts there.
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