DEAR DR. GOTT: I don’t want to take bisphosphonates for osteoporosis. My doctor insists. Can I refuse? He discounts the heavy-duty resistance exercises I do daily.
DEAR READER: Yes, you can. Your physician can strongly recommend a medication or course of treatment and indicate why he feels it is necessary, but the bottom line is that it’s your body. I am sure that he has your best interests at heart, but perhaps a calcium plus vitamin D supplement will suffice. Therefore, before getting into any shouting match, I suggest you speak with him and review all options.