[skyguy79]

Originally Posted by gerryann

After receiving the expected DX of osteoporosis, I was give a script for Actonel...the once a month one. I haven't filled it yet. I started researching it...and boy-oh-boy....it sounds like it comes with some really nasty side effects, so much so that I don't know if I'm gonna fill it. I'm wondering if any of you have taken it...taking it now, and how the side effects have been for you? .....or, are you taking another one of these osteoporosis drugs and are willing to share your experience?

I was Dx'd with osteopenia more than 5 years ago and was originally prescribed Boniva. A little over 3 years ago my doctor replaced the Boniva with Actonel stating it to be a better treatment.

As for side effects, I cannot say that I've had any that I've been able to directly associate with the Actonel. When you're on multiple medications, side effects can be hard to recognize and associate with any individual meds you're taking.

When I read the words I've highlighted in your post, I get the feeling that you're not viewing the side effects as being a possibility, but rather an inevitability. If my feeling is correct, then I would have to disagree with that view. While it's important to realize that all medications (prescription or otherwise) have side effects, it's also important to realize that this doesn't mean that you will definitely have side effects. Side effects listed or given on instructions are generally determined by statistical data on past experiences with the meds, and they're provided for us so we will know what we should be looking for.

It's also important to know that doctors make determinations (or at least they should) on meds they prescribe as to whether the risks out weigh the benefit. If they do outweigh the benefits, then the doctor should not be prescribing it. Before deciding whether or not to take the med, I would discuss my concerns with my doctor asking their view on the risks vs. the benefit first.