| I began taking Actonel a little over 2 years ago when a full bone scan showed that I was in danger of hip fracture and had lost bone density that put me on the borderline of osteosporosis. I have a family history of osteosporosis. At that time I was on the 5mg daily dosage. Last year, I switched to the weekly dosage. During the 2 year period I had some back pain, but I related that directly to a 15 pound weight gain. When I lost the 15 pounds, the back pain went away. I had a full body bone scan about 2 months ago after the first 2 years on Actonel. I am no longer at risk for hip fracture and my 60 year old body now has a spine with a bone density that is excellent for someone in their mid-30's. My physician told me I could either quit taking the Actonel now or can continue taking it as a preventive measure. |