Osteoporosis Medications: Pros and Cons | Episode 186

Links
Dr. McCormick's website, where you can purchase his new book - www.osteonatur...
More Natural Approaches to Osteoporosis and Bone Health Summit 2.0 - morebonehealth...
“Bone strength is not bone density. Bone strength is a combination of bone density and bone quality. One person has a negative 3.0 and they’re going to fracture. Another person has a negative 3.0 and they’re not going to fracture. Because, you know, their quality is better.”
-Dr. R. Keith McCormick
Dr. R. Keith McCormick is a chiropractic physician specializing in the management of patients with osteoporosis. He is the author of the whole body approach to osteoporosis and his recently released book - Great Bones: Taking Control of Your Osteoporosis.
Sports have always played a vital part in Dr. McCormick’s life. He is the former U.S. record holder for the most points scored in a pentathlon competition. Dr. McCormick continues to compete in triathlons of all distances and has completed six Ironman competitions, five of them after recovering from multiple osteoporosis-related fractures.
In this interview, Dr. McCormick discusses the current osteoporosis medications in terms of safety and indications for use as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Timestamps
[03:02] Where to Get His Book
[07:14] Mediations and Classifications
[12:20] Who Is or Isn’t a Candidate - The Risk Factors
[18:17] Bisphosphonates and Fracture Reduction
[23:29] How to Balance Which Way You Should Go
[34:38] The Problems with Prolia
[42:00] Anabolic Medications
[52:22] Dr. McCormick’s Story
DISCLAIMER - The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast.

[@evelynmead598]

DR thank you! You explained better than my physician. I didn’t know that I have Osteopina the last time I have my bone density test, if my Dr told me that I should do more prevention because now I have mild compression osteoporosis fractured. And my dr just prescribed me Fosamax not even telling me the side effects, now I am doing my own research when it come to meds that any of my Dr are prescribing. These podcasts for anything helps people to understand what is going on with their bodies, nutrition and etc. I hope these Dr’s have more sympathy with their patients. Not all Dr’s some of them.

[@MadamePele-dr6yh]

Thank you so much! I learned so much in this past hour. I will rewatch a few times to reinforce what I learned.

[@JosephTownsend-c9r]

To whom it may concern, if you truly want to be helped then do yourself a favor and check out Dr. D Joel Wallach's 22 minutes video osteoporosis and arthritis this information will save you from lots of trouble in your health.

[@zenabishop8956]

Despite chronic arthritis I swim as much as possible. I enjoy meditation, mindfulness and exercises to keep me supple as I can hardly walk now. Knee replacement on the 27th, can't wait. Will build myself up after operation and do the exercises I did pre-op. Despite spinal cord stimulator and curving of the spine (bulging disc),; I have the bone density of a 40 year old! God couldn't stick that on me too.🎉

[@kathleen2020]

The problem is this is a very complex issue and most healthcare providers are clueless. I just roll my eyes at my primary care provider and the endocrinologist the pcp sent me to. I finally got an appointment with the Bone and Mineral clinic at UTSouthwestern in Dallas. I’m praying that they can provide me with the care I need. I’m enjoying reading “Great Bones”! Thank you for writing it!

[@LookingForMedicalStaff]

X

[@JosephTownsend-c9r]

Please listen to this 22 minutes long video from Dr. D Joel Wallach osteoporosis and arthritis it's going to save you from this health issues plus all the unnecessary doctors visits.

[@RebeccaKnight927]

I bought both of his books and i would read them at the beach lol! Can't wait for them to arrive. I'm a physician and i practice integrative internal medicine and dealing with prolia problems is a big issue!!! I love idea of forteo and tymlos but causing fatigue for sensitive patients. So i look forward to learning Dr McCormick's approach!!!

[@loricampbell1164]

I am very very confused. I have a -2.9 DEXA scan (was -2.5 five years ago) and did not want to take Fosomax. But I went to the Orthopedic Institute to see a specialist and he told me my hip was worse and that I have lost a lot in my hip femur in the past five years (something about a .9 loss). Now I feel that I must take Fosomax or risk hip fracture. I've never had a fracture. I do everything else right in the way of exercise, diet, vitamins. I really don't want to take this drug that will make my bones brittle in the future and my dentist won't want to do procedures. I am SO confused. I don't know what to believe.

[@pennycoyote3855]

...suggestions Endocrinologist REMS scan Naturopathy

[@sandraalbrecht8320]

P9pq

[@loricampbell1164]

@@sandraalbrecht8320 what the heck is that supposed to mean???

[@JosephTownsend-c9r]

To whomever you are I've read your comments. I'm going to give you way better information than you've EVER heard of in your entire life time here on earth. Check out Dr. D Joel Wallach's 22 minutes long video on osteoporosis and arthritis you'll thank GOD ALMIGHTY for this new and extremely way better information. GOD bless you.

[@ThuyTran-ci2et]

Thanks to both Margie and Dr. McCormick, I have hope now on getting better (was feeling overwhelmed and hopeless when first diagnosed with OP).

[@margiebissinger6411]

Glad to hear you can use the info to start on your psth to healthier bones

[@FreeBirdUKVanLife]

Thanku for this. I Fractured my hip in April. Still waiting fir a hip replacement and been diagnosed with osteoporosis. They don't do the other test here in the UK only the dexa and they want to put me on medication for life. I'm taking vit k and d3 which my Dr scoffed at, cut put caffeine and gluten so far. I will try find your book. Thank you. 🙏

[@tinaoffice9274]

Thank you for an amazing, clear informative explanation on how it works. Making it possible and with confidence to choose the option based on high quality information. THANK YOU Maggie Bissinger and Dr McComick.

[@toniasalways]

I have Dr. McCormick's first book and wanted something more up to date and found this. I ordered the new book. The doctor I'm working with is not much into nutrition; loves drugs. Went there on the first appointment. Never explained anything. Fosamax will save you. Sigh...

[@JosephTownsend-c9r]

To whomever you are, do yourself a favor and save yourself a lot of bad health issues by checking out Dr. D Joel Wallach's 22 minutes video osteoporosis and arthritis. You'll thank GOD ALMIGHTY I gave you this information about Dr. D Joel Wallach

[@MichelleCarson-rx5oh]

Thank you so much! I have been so scared about my DX. You have helped to ease my anxiety. By you having it as well puts me at ease knowing how well you are doing. Thank you!!

[@MarthaGarcia-ix4qx]

Thank you! For tall the information. Now I feel so much more confident

[@margiebissinger6980]

So glad to hear that!

[@ThuyTran-ci2et]

Excellent video, it answered most, if not all, the questions I have on these meds. Thanks so much !!!!!

[@karlint39]

This was very informative. I have osteopenia related to rheumatoid arthritis and prednisone (steroid) use. I was prescribed Fosamax many years ago, but switchwed to Prolia about 7 years ago because an injection every 6 months was less hassle than the very specific way I had to take Fosamax. I often forgot until it was too late and then I'd have to try again the next day. But it was only when I was put on 60mg of prednisone a couple of months ago for a lupus flare that I revisited the options for treating osteoporosis and found out about the Prolia trap. According to this video, it seems like there is no safe way for me to go off prolia, and staying on it for ever is not ideal, either. I'm not sure what my next step should be but I suppose I should stay on the Prolia until I have a clear plan. I'll do bone building exercises and take some supplements in addition to the Prolia and calcium that my doctor has prescribed. As for the CTX test, I imagine my doctor never does that. Just a DEXA scan and of course checking blood calcium levels. I feel a bit betrayed, but if my rheumatologist isn't interested in taking my osteoperosis (treatment and prevention of it worsening) seriously, hopefully I can find another doctor specifically to handle the osteoporosis aspect of my illness. Fortunately I've tapered down from such a high dose of prednisone but I'm sure it hasn't helped my bone density and quality any. My top priority will be to find out about the CTX test and find doctors that know about it and actually use it. I imagine most doctors just use the DEXA scan and blood calcium and that's it.

[@margiebissinger6980]

Yes - there is a way to go off Prolia - it is to go on Reclast for a limited time. Dr. McCormick is one of my speakers for my next summit on osteoporosis and he discusses getting off Prolia in his talk that is available now when you sign up. At this link - morebonehealth.byhealthmeans.com/?idev_id=22547

[@karlint39]

@@margiebissinger6980 Thanks! I will definitely look into it!

[@JEWELALEE]

True

[@majaber1]

Fantastic interview with easy-to-understand information. Il be def consulting him...thanks Margie, have also subscribed.

[@Yeshua835]

About a month ago (Dec 13 2024), I had my second Zoledronic infusion. Prior to this, I'd been diagnosed with 10 vertebral compression fractures. Since then I've developed a lot of pain in left hip, groin and thigh and also right groin. GP originally diagnosed as bursitis. Osteoporosis Specialist sent me for an xray which showed an AFF. She says, "it is not that" and so now I have to go for a bone scan. Also, for the last 3 weeks I've started with very bad GERD, despite taking two ppi's a day. Could this GERD be a result of the infusion????

[@gordonhalstead9846]

❤❤❤❤😊educational podcast between Dr McCormick and Margie Bissinger thanks for the information bones summit 👍

[@susanfifer5744]

I just got diagnosed with osteoporosis at age 63 , going for my iv infusion in a week, it was quite a shock ..I have -2.3 in my hip and femoral neck and lower back is -.2.6.. I have exercise every day with weights and walk everyday.. I can feel my hip when I walk with over 18,000 steps or go on big hikes that are over an hour or two I can barely lift my left leg ..

[@teri855]

What are you wanting out of your comment?

[@bonnieramirez4701]

To many steps my friend

[@PatriziaMarani]

Thanks, the most useful on KZbin!!🙏🙏🙏

[@angelakakaras1997]

What an amazing men. Thank you for such an informative video

[@Lizerator]

My good friend, 81 yes old, on Fosamax for at least 15 years!!! is currently in the hospital with fracture, looking forward to long and painful recovery. So unnecessary if her doctors has told her these things

[@margiebissinger6980]

I agree - that is so sad and unfortunate! I hope by spreading this information situations like that will not happen in the future.

[@margiebissinger6980]

So sad and unfortunate. I hope your friend is better!

[@butterflygirl3359]

Without Fosamax, she could have been in the hospital with a fracture a lot sooner. Don’t conflate the disease and the medication.

[@catherinewong157]

I thought you could only take it for 5 years.

[@Lizerator]

@@catherinewong157 They didn't pay attention I guess.

[@pialehmann9806]

Thank you so much Margie and Dr. McCormick. Invaluable information. So many drug names to get used to/investigate. Just a bit confused between Bisphosphonate and Reclast when going off Prolia. Will order the book.

[@elisecaron1585]

Exceptional interview, thank you so much!! Dr. McCormick mentioned that he works with other health care providers. I know this is a long shot but has he worked at all with anyone in Canada or might he know of someone that I could see here? Thank you.

[@ayashasiddika]

I have taken 3 prolia. I want to get out of it. Now how can I get out of it. What is Reclast?

[@MrJugThumper]

So excellent. We are blessed to have Dr Keith guiding us!!!!

[@forestglen4943]

Im from Bangkok, I had bone density test Dec 2022, and had osteoporosis in spine (t score -2.7), the orthopedic doctor prescribed me a 3 year prolia injection (once every six months) without saying anything about side effects and withdrawal risks, and plan after 3 years. I took the first injection, then did some researches after that (I should have done the research before I went along with my doctor's prescription), based on info I found on the internet, I decided at my appointment for the second shot (six months after my first shot), to stop. (my t score 6 months post first injection increased around 8%). Since then my Obgen doctor prescribed me a celvista, actually I did not want to use any drug anymore but my Obgen doctor said since I already had a prolia injection, it is too risky to exit.without any medication treatment, so currently I am on Celvista (oral taken daily) if possible I really want to stop celvista too, I do not want to take any drug. Im 57, exercise daily. All the info on youtube and onternet are so overwhelming, I might decide soon to stop all drugs, careful with diet, keep exercise, and leave the rest to nature, let it be.

[@ayashasiddika]

I am also in the same position. Had prolia 3 times. Now to exit prolia doctor will give me zolendronic acid solution. And then I will stop all the drugs.

[@forestglen4943]

@@ayashasiddika thanks for sharing and all the best.

[@wuyan7864]

I am also in the same position. Had 2times prolia. Dr.did not said anything untill I do reserch. I am going to stop prolia when six month come, to see what can transit any other drugs. do excisis then stop all the drugs.

[@forestglen4943]

@@wuyan7864 thanks for sharing and wish you all the best. As of now, I have stopped all drugs. I have been taking Vit D3, K2-MK7, calcium magnesium (per info I found in youtube) and added heel drops to my daily exercise (also per info found in youtube), plan to take dexa scan once a year just to monitor, have asked my doctor not to prescribe me any drugs🙂

[@forestglen4943]

​@@wuyan7864thanks for sharing and wish you all the best.

[@lisalarson5640]

Hi all. Anyone have experience with the dexa and petite people ? No one will talk about being 90 lbs my whole life and 5 0"... now 63. We know the dexa is flawed for extreme height but no one will talk about it! It's the z score better for me? Have not broke anything at a -4.2 spine...but 2.9 in the hip...crazy difference... not believable in my eyes..? Help. Will get the book! C Pelio test was 500 non fasting btw... thx all. ❤

[@naomiwong9874]

My oncologist recommended Xvega as I have bone mets. It is a standard. But I am concerned about side effects.

[@shlomitsheilageisler214]

Do you have to take another medication after you finish the 12 months of evenity? My MD recommended prolia but I would be hesitant to take it.

[@HelenaMulio]

I wonder why are you reluctant to get prolia? My doctor has suggested my mom to take Prolia too . But I'm still doing research about this Medicine

[@Notmep]

No awfully drugs for me thanks, Fosamax pills affected my swallowing and absolutely refuse prolia injections. They are dangerously prescribed and the fractures and tooth and jaw damage frightening

[@Notmep]

No awfully drugs for me thanks, Fosamax pills affected my swallowing and absolutely refuse prolia injections. They are dangerously prescribed and the fractures and tooth and jaw damage frightening

[@Notmep]

Chiropractor or physician?? Can’t be both

[@susanhayes6207]

Such an informative lecture!

[@koleke100]

Where can I get the names of the lab tests you are referring to?

[@msaw5943]

I am studying every word...have a bone health appointment in a month. Am doing all the foods tweaks in the meantime and getting educated. One question though...is it ever not worth dealing with the bone loss due to health and age? How about straight to a wheel chair and the end of life? That is the feeling I am getting as my break disabled me for over a year but went undiagnosed until recently.

[@mikespector2]

I have been taking Forteo for a couple years. I don't have osteoporosis any more, but osteopenia. I exercise a lot, take Vitamin D, K2, and calcium. I will end Forteo in a few weeks. The doc says I need to switch to reclast afterwards. But I need much dental work, and the dentist does not want me to take a bisphosphonate. Isn't it enough to stop Forteo and do the healthy lifestyle, no reclast?

[@dianacarolinasolanor1013]

Had you have some side effects? My mom begin yesterday with forteo

[@martinadirusso9478]

Horrible medication. Why would any doctor poisoning people like that? My doctor threatened me also, you can never ever stop, or your bones get worse then before. I’m sure there is a way to get off. Doctors make huge money to prescribe this medication.

[@cherlgolja5402]

I agree , that is why you have to be your own advocate!!!! I love my natural path doc for over 40 years , I’m 71 no prescription drugs ! I’ve been taking tons of very high quality vitamins eat well and been a gym rat and love lifting weights 🏋️‍♀️,yoga, Pilates , and Catriking which is recumbent bike ) and spin classes. ❤

[@amya9597]

I agree. My doctor also wants me to get Reclast injections, no thanks. Doctors are always consumed about bone density but never talk about bone strength.

[@kimberlygorgoglione9237]

I will buy this book. Thank you for the info. I wish I could treat with you. Is that possible.?

[@vassilikidavilla3084]

I am on diet gluten free. What happened to my bones?

[@nataliejohnson508]

Is CTX the same as NTX? My NTX was 94, with lumbar T score of -3.5. Is that high bone turnover?

[@maril1379]

Great thumbs up

[@tatirivers6392]

Great doctor!!!!

[@sunnyla2835]

I have been prescribed Actone for osteoporosis (age 72)l with zero explanation ordiscussion of why that over other therapies or WHY after decades of supp,ementing with vitamin D, calcium and magnesium and exercise calcium is ending up in my arteries and as calcium crystals (chondrocalcinosis) in my knee meniscus insteadof in my bones. So i scheduled an appt to ask questions, but am not expecting much, based on prior experience

[@vtgirl1969]

I take Vit K2 in MK7 or MK4 form. From what I understand, it keeps the calcium from clogging your arteries and puts it in the bones, where it belongs.

[@TrishStarr]

What about Reclast?

[@annecyle]

How long should you take a bisphosphonate after Forteo I have your book

[@anacuji2444]

When will the book be out in Kindle?

[@lisannesmith65]

Does it make sense to do lab work when you are taking a bone building drug?

[@victoriabarnfield8251]

Io was diagnosed with osteoporosis 3 yrs ago because I had a rib fracture from someone hugging me too hard🥺I was referred to a PA bone specialist! She put me on for two for the 2 yr limit and it did absolutely nothing! I was referred to another Pa specialist and she put me on Magnesium Glycinate 200mg and liquid calcium 1200 mg per day. We'll see?

[@victoriabarnfield8251]

In my comment I should have said, first on forteo then on Prolia😏

[@sailorette47]

I was prescribed Zometa infusions 6 over 3 yrs after chemo thesrap, 7 years ago. Also on Anastrozole for 7 years. Now osteoporosis has worsened & need to take Zometa infusions again 3 infusions one yearly over 3 years. I dont know what to do. I had a fall last year while waking & never recovered from that fall. No fractures tho but bad joint pains over past year & worsening stiff joint pains, especially getting up in a.m. from bed & after sitting. Why does no one mention Zometa infusions???? Thank you

[@karindella]

What would you follow Evenity with?

[@robinm.1961]

I have RA and OP. just found out my Osteopenia *turned to " Osteoporosis. My Doctor wants me on Prolia. Only one Dexa came back -2.6 left femur. Vertebrae -1.5 left Hip-2.5.

[@cindylutz7442]

That's what I thought. I'm at -4.6 in my spine, and I definitely have had fractures. Tried to get into an endocrinologist right out of the gate, but the one I wanted to see said she was booked 6 months out, to take what PCP prescribed, PCP of course prescribed Fosamax. I am seeing a different endocrinologist next month, but PCP was all, "They're just going to send you home, because you're doing all you can." I actually am not very hopeful. (Also, I suspect Fosamax is already affecting my esophagus. I don't have GERD issues, but reading up, I do have pain behind my sternum, that "pill stuck" feeling, so, I'm watching it. (Have only taken 3 doses so far.))

[@margaretcupitt9127]

How do you get his book? Name title

[@vassilikidavilla3084]

What you think about Enevity injection q month?.

[@conniechumbler4960]

I have just been prescribed Forteo. I have had DDD since my 30’ my entire has been fused, I have developed scoliosis and osteoporosis of the spine I also have RA and OA, now the hardware in my spine has loosened and I have broken screws In the hardware. I’m in terrible pain daily. I was sent to an Orthopedic Surgeon, who says I need another surgery but with the condition of my spine it would be useless with the condition of my bones. So I was send to another Dr Who is treating my osteoporosis. She has prescribed Forteo injections. I’ve been taking this drug for 3 months now. But I worry, this drug has some pretty bad side affects. What are your thoughts on this drug?

[@frodoles]

Can't find it in UK 😥 we need this here please 🙏

[@joycemckeown789]

Must say your health system in the UK is a disgrace, trying too get appointments or even too talk to a GP is dreadful.

[@cherlgolja5402]

Gut health is everything it’s been called the second brain 🧠

[@cynthiahoe7835]

Does FORTEO cause CALCIPHYLAXIS ?

[@cynthiahoe7835]

🔺🦴🔺Does FORTEO cause CALCIPHYLAXIS

[@cynthiahoe7835]

📕 Where can I get your book ?📕

[@georgebox100]

what percent of people, does the osteoporosis drugs ( evenity ) work to rebuild bone in people ?_____% --20% of people...or 50% of people....or 75% of people ?____

[@MommaBear360]

Depressing. 😮

[@gaylepeterson6194]

I wish this were explained with less medical terminology and more layman's language.

[@aixinw6237]

What is phone number I can call?

[@flowingb1]

What is a reclass?

[@kimappreciateslife]

Do you mean the intravenous bone drug called Reclast?

[@maryl8753]

The Evenity which he is talking about and seems to be the mist enthusiastic about at the end of the 12 month treatment period you then must transition onto bisphosphonates anyway- so you're back on the same drugs that you were trying to avoid in the first place with all those awful side effects including fractures. 😮 whats the point??

[@barbarahardwick]

8h