Jane,
I have both PD and osteoporosis. I have been taking Fosamax for two and a
half years, along with Eldepryl, Mirapex, hormones and Calcium + Vit. D (I do
not take Sinemet as yet). In January of this year I had a second bone scan to
check on the progression of the osteoporosis. I was pleased that there was no
additional bone loss after two years, but there was also no growth in bone
density.
My mother was severely crippled with both osteoporosis and rheumatoid
arthritis and had a lot of spontaneous fractures, especially in her spine.
Because I know how painful osteoporosis can be, I don't mind the inconvenience
of the Fosamax routine. Fosamax is much more effective if you wait a full
hour before drinking, eating or taking meds. I usually shower, get dressed
and check email or iron until my hour wait is up. The time goes quickly.
The only side effects I had from taking Fosamax were occasional stomach
pains for the first week. No problems since then.
Good luck to your Mom.
Mary Sheehan
60/ diagnosed with PD - 2 1/2 yrs
onset of PD symptoms - 14 yrs.
