Ask the Experts

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: June 15, 2011

Our experts Dr. Mache Seibel, Karen Giblin and Dr. Michael Goodman field questions from our members. Submit your question.

Dear Red Hot Mamas Experts,

I am 54 years old and postmenopausal. I have just been diagnosed with Osteopenia. My mother and sister both have osteoporosis. I am hesitant to take medications due to the side effects I read about. Should I be concerned?

Thank you,

F

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Dear F,

If you are a healthy 50 year old woman, you are just as likely to die of a complication of osteoporosis as you are from breast cancer. So if you have a bone density that shows you are losing bone, and your mother and two older sisters have osteoporosis, it makes a lot of sense to treat your osteopenia before it worsens to osteoporosis. The question is what medicine is best. For that, it is best to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor because there are now a number of medications on the market. One thing to check for sure is your vitamin D level because low levels are responsible for many women having osteopenia and osteoporosis. Also, whether or not you take Evista or another medication, be sure to take 1,000 to 1200 milligrams of calcium daily.

Good Health to You!

Red Hot Mamas Experts