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Keeping Bones Strong

Q. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis around menopause and was prescribed Fosamax. It gave me flu-like symptoms every time I took it. Actonel gave me an ulcer.
My doctor discovered I have celiac disease, which explains why I developed osteoporosis so young. I am reluctant to keep taking bisphosphonates like Reclast or Boniva because of reports about brittle bones. Are there other options?

A. We’re sorry you have had trouble with bisphosphonates such as alendronate (Fosamax) and risedronate (Actonel). Such drugs increase bone density but can cause bone, joint and muscle pain, blurred vision, heartburn and flu-like symptoms.
We are sending you our Guide to Osteoporosis with a discussion of risk factors such as celiac disease. It also discusses many other options, including drugs like Evista, Forteo and calcitonin (Miacalcin), along with non-drug suggestions for stronger bones.
Celiac disease is caused by an immune reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. This results in poor absorption of nutrients that can lead to osteoporosis.

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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