Osteoporsis and Losing weight

Missust
0 Recommendations

My mom (75 yrs old) was recently diagnosed w/ osteoporosis.
She is taking Fosomax (1 pill/month). She has lost about 20 lbs in the last two years. She weighs 107 lbs now.

Her main complaint is back spasms. She said her doctors don't seem concerned about that and the spasms started before taking the Fosomax.

Do you think the drastic weight loss could be the reason for the spasms? I've tried to get her to increase her calorie intake and to exercise.
How can we help her to get rid of these spasms?

5 replies

pgreene

If the 20 pounds was over a 2-year period, that averages to about 10 pounds a year which isn't a drastic weight loss. Or did she lose the weight all at once?

For the spasms she may need a muscle relaxer like Soma, Flexeril or Skelaxin. A massage or heat might also help. Another suggestion - if it is like muscle cramps in your legs - my hubby takes a shot of vinegar to help.

Peggy

golevel

I've heard a lot of band things about Fosamax. Ask your doctor about putting her on a more natural treatment, like OsteoDiet

pgreene

golevel,
You have to take what you read with a grain of salt. The majority of people are helped by the osteoporosis meds on the market. The severe side effects like osteonecrosis of the jaw are very rare considering the number of people taking the medications.

I have been on Fosamax for 12 years now. I started when I was 33 when it was a daily pill. I have not had any problems with it and I have been on it a long time. I am also premenopausal. My scores have gone from -2.5 to -1.2.

It is not good to give advice solely on the basis of what we have read. Experience is much better.

Peggy - moderator

Missust

I'm mostly concerned about her weightloss. I don't think the fosomax was the reason for that.

Your right re what I read, because she has a medical history that I didn't even talk about.

I do appreciate your help.

pgreene

Has she lost the weight gradually over 2 years or did she lose it in a short time?

Peggy

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