DEAR DR. GOTT:
I just read in the New York Times that long-term use of biphosphonates for osteoporosis could lead to weaker bones in some people who use them. Since I suffer from the disease, I am very concerned and question whether I should discontinue my medication. I can’t get an appointment with my own physician for more than a month, so am turning to you for an answer.

DEAR READER:
You are referring to a small study reported in The Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, disclosing patients with low-to-no-trauma fractures. A large portion of those in the study had been on long-term Fosamax therapy for an average of 6.9 years. Of particular interest is that all of the breaks occurred straight across the bone and some were preceded by weeks or even months of unexplained aches and pains. [Read more...]