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Another drug

Posted , 4 users are following.

Mousemum
Mousemum

Hi everone. Not been to orthopaedic consultant yet. Thats tomorrow. Been for tearly check up today and had the usual rubbish about cutting down on prednisilone and I shouldnt be on 12mg after 3yrs etc etc. It was unfortunately not my usual doctor who is brill so I just smiled nicely and said I was quite happy with it. Anyway couldnt and havent taken my alendronic acid tablets so he insisted on giving me a prescription for Risedronate sodium instead. Anybody tell me anything about it. Thanks

Carol

0 likes, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • davidmelville
    davidmelville Mousemum

    Posted

    Hi Mousemum,

    i changed over to the Risendronate from Alendronic at the beginning of the year as I did not like the Alendronic . . I could not put my finger on what exactly it was but I dreaded so calked 'acid day'.

    So glad I did they seem to suite me better, I think they are softer somehow!

    For me it was a good step . . . . . 😄 

  • MrsO-UK_Surrey
    MrsO-UK_Surrey Mousemum

    Posted

    Hello Mousemum, Risedronate, like Alendronic Acid, is a bisphosphonate, and there is a (rare) side effect which can cause osteonecrosis of the jaw and unusual fractures of the thigh bone.    The latest guidelines suggest that anyone taking such drugs has a break from them after at the most 5 years - I believe the problems have started in the few people adversely affected from 3 years onwards.

    Following her experience, Nefret, who posts on this site, pointed me in the direction of a drug called Denosumab when a friend of mine experienced problems with the bisphosponates.  My friend has now completed her course of Denosumab and all is well.

    If you need any further reassurance or advice, the National Osteoporosis Society have a helpline where you will find answers to your questions on 0845 450 0230.

    My aunt took bisphosphanate drugs for years and at each scan was told that her bones were ok - she went on to have a hairline fracture of her spine.  She has now had expert treatment with a very costly drug for which special agreement had to be sought, and her bone density has improved.

    I hope this helps.

    • Mousemum
      Mousemum MrsO-UK_Surrey

      Posted

      Hello Mrs O have been waiting for your comments. I really dont want to take anything but had a stand in doctor for check up yesterday who insisted. He also said after three years I should be off prednisilone and even queried whether I had right diagnosis in first place. Needless to say I will always make sure my normal doctor is taking my appt from now on. Got visit to orthopaedic consultant re hip today so kee your fingers crossed for me. x Carol
    • MrsO-UK_Surrey
      MrsO-UK_Surrey Mousemum

      Posted

      Carol, if you've had a DEXA bone density scan that has revealed osteoporosis or some thinning of your bones, then yes you will probably be advised to take something.  Otherwise, calcium plus Vit D should suffice.  Hopefully your orthopaedic consultant will have good advice later today, and yes fingers and everything else crossed for you.  xx
  • Mousemum
    Mousemum

    Posted

    Hi everyone. Well thats it. Been to hospital and have got to have a full hip replacement . Relieved in a way but very scared. He said I would have to be very careful about infections due to being on steroids and type 2 Diabetic. Bit worried about that knowing state of British Hospital as min but hope to only be in 4 days. Hope its soon. Thanks for all advice and comcern. XX Carol
    • MrsO-UK_Surrey
      MrsO-UK_Surrey Mousemum

      Posted

      Carol, it's normal to be scared, but I hope it helps to know that we are in touch with several members on other PMR forums who have had hip surgery with great success, whilst at the same time being on steroids.  One lady said she wished she'd been brave enough years earlier.  There are also a few members in my support group who have had successful hip replacement whilst on steroids.  It also must be reassuring for you to hear the consultant saying he is aware that they would have to be very careful.  Sometimes, people are advised to increase their steroid dose slightly in the few days surrounding surgery, but that may not be necessary for you whilst still on 12mgs.  If you would like to be put in touch with a PMR sufferer who has had the procedure, I'm sure that can be arranged.  Meanwhile, try and relax and think about the relief of having a pain-free hip ahead.     
    • Mousemum
      Mousemum MrsO-UK_Surrey

      Posted

      Thanks Mrs O can always rely on you for sound advice. Intend to try and do a lot of relaxing smile
  • bedilia
    bedilia Mousemum

    Posted

    Anesthsia and your surgeon will most likely order an intravenous injection of steriod both prior to the surgery and sometimes may continue it for a short period of time post surgery, in order to prevent your adrenal system from going into crisis mode.   I've been given the IV injection even if I wasn't currently on steriods.  Your body does not always react positively to a stressful incident, such as surgery!

     

    • bedilia
      bedilia

      Posted

      I always ask if I should have the IV injection as surgeons don't always remember your history!

       

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