Question
I am a 51 year old woman and had a hysterectomy over 20 years ago. My rheumatologist told me I have a very severe case of osteoporosis in my lumbar and should resume treatment immediately. Her suggestion is a daily dose for 2 years that I will inject myself. I cannot remember the name of it and cannot find any further information at this time on the internet. I would like to know if you know of any of these treatments and the safety. Also, I have read over and over that steroids contribute to this disease. I have had several injections of cortisone in my lumbar and other areas of my body. I also have a hemangeoma in my L4 vertabrae that consumes at least half of the inner vertabrae. I am currently scheduled to have epidural injections in my lumbar for pain treatment in the same area of my most severe osteoporosis. I am very confused and ready to cancel this appointment. Why would doctors put my back at further risk knowing the dangers of steroids and osteoporsis? Please tell me your opinion on this subject.
Answer
I think the medication your doctor has recommended is Forteo. Forteo is a synthetic version of a hormone called parathyroid hormone. It is given by daily self injection and in many cases can build bone density. It is used for severe osteoporosis particularly if there has already been a fracture. Steroids can cause osteoporosis but mainly when taken orally or given daily by intravenous or intramuscular injections. Local injections of steroids such as epidurals do not signficantly worsen osteoporosis. Look on this website for more info.
