I went back to the article Maria posted and yes, Forteo builds bone rather than inhibits resorption. However, it is only recommended for severe osteoporosis.
I think it's very iffy about whether I even need to be treated and I am also on hormone replacement treatment, including estrogen, which should be protecting my bones. With all that I am doing--calcium, vitamin D, Actonel, estrogen, exercise on the positive side--I think I have reached my maximum effect. The one major negative is smoking (okay, okay, no comment).
My PCP actually called me today to discuss a "plan": he indicated that he has seen regression in bone density as soon as 2 years after stopping biophosphanates, which was startling to hear. The plan right now is to keep taking the Actonel until I can totally quit cigarettes and then take a vacation from it. It will be interesting to hear what my gynecologist says.
And I will also ask Dr. Regan for his opinion since he actually drilled into my vertebra!
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