DEAR DR. GOTT:
Being an avid reader of your column, I feel compelled to share information with readers interested in alternative therapies for osteoporosis.

After experiencing jaw problems from using Fosamax, I found a great natural product that is affordable and works well. Called OsteoValin (osteoval carbonate forte), it is manufactured by the Carter-Reed Company. It is not a calcium supplement. It is supposed to be taken in addition to a bone health regimen. It assists the body in building new bone mass while reducing bone loss.

I have been using the product for 18 months, along with a quality calcium/magnesium supplement and my last bone density test showed great results. For me there have been no side effects. OsteoValin can be ordered by calling 1-800-898-5153. Their customer service is excellent and they won’t try to sell other products to you. [Read more...]

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a healthy, active 70-year-old female. I take vitamins and 120 mg of calcium with vitamin D. I would like to know if I should be taking Fosamax plus D also. I weigh 127 pounds and am 5’ 2”. I don’t want to take anything I don’t need.

DEAR READER:
Fosamax plus D is an osteoporosis medication that also contains vitamin D which aids calcium absorption into the bones. Unless you have had testing that shows osteoporosis, you do not need this medication.

I would also like to add that I was unaware that calcium came in 120 mg tablets. Perhaps you miswrote, but if not, you should take 1200 mg of calcium and 600 IU of vitamin D daily to prevent osteoporosis.

I recommend you speak to your primary care physician or gynecologist if you have further questions regarding osteoporosis and treatment. [Read more...]

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a healthy 56-year-old female, 5’4” tall, who weighs 115 pounds. I walk rapidly seven days a week, 45 minutes a day. I have no significant aches or pains and no health problems according to my doctor during annual checkups. I don’t take any medication. I underwent a bone density test and was told I have very low bone density and my doctor wants me to take Fosamax.

I don’t like the idea of taking a strong medication such as Fosamax when I feel so great, and I don’t want to take medicine for something I might not have. Besides, if I do have a problem, it could be 15 to 20 years before it affects me, and there might not even be a significant problem then.

DEAR READER:
Before taking any medication, a patient should explore the risk/benefit relation. If, as you say, your bone density is “very low”, you are at risk of fractures and you ought to revise your objection to Fosamax or similar drugs. On the other hand, a moderate reduction in bone density can be monitored by annual testing.

You fail to indicate if you drink milk, eat yogurt, or get adequate calcium in your daily diet. If you don‘t, you might consider taking calcium with vitamin D supplements to maintain healthy bones. It’s safe, without side effects, and might be more to your liking than prescription medication.

At the end of a trial period agreed upon between you and your physician, you can be re-tested to determine if you have additional loss of density or if the simple supplement corrects any abnormalities. If additional loss is present, you will need to take prescription medication.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Osteoporosis”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.