Hi, Dr. Rynne ~ My name is Susan Downs, 60 years old, and in fair health. Brief history: Stopped smoking in 1998, drinks alcohol, Left Breast Cancer in 2001, and Right Breast Cancer in 2013. (At least I now match :) ) Went thru all the surgeries, the chemo and radiation both times. Cancer-free now; however, that last round of chemo really did me in, and I still don t have my complete strength back yet. I still tire very easily, and can t stand or walk for very long, my legs just give out, and my balance is currently lousy. Naps are very common. Normally, I don t use my cane unless I know I m going to be out of the house for an extended period of time, and I ll use my cane for support and balance primarily, not for pain -- thank God! Okay, here s my question: Earlier this week, I had a bone density scan done (I had one done about 3 years ago), and the results came back today with a 4.1% decrease in bone density since then. I would ask my doctor about this, but she s out of the office this afternoon. I ll try to call her tomorrow. I suspect I have a full-fledged case of osteoporosis now (I had a mild case of it about 10 years ago), and the 4.1% decrease in bone density from three years ago pretty much confirms that. My doctor is prescribing Fosamax (not sure of the dosage yet -- it will be in the mail within a few days). My question is: What exactly is Fosamax? What s the standard dosage, how often is the recommended dose to be taken, and how exactly is it supposed to work? My next step before I have to leave here shortly is to do my own extensive research on Fosamax and osteoporosis. I did medical transcription for over 20+ years in various specialties before our local doctors, clinics and hospitals went to electronic medical records (sigh). I just basically wanted to get a basic overview of what it is and how it works before I go digging deeper for more extensive information. And since I have done medical transcription for over 20+ years, you can actually speak in Medicalese , and I probably won t bat an eye. In the meantime, I hope you re doing well. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Susan Downs :) Sorry, but I don t have $15 to spare. I do appreciate your time though. Have a nice day!
posted on
Sun, 17 Jan 2016

Thu, 28 Apr 2016
Answered on

Thu, 28 Apr 2016
Last reviewed on