Bone loss from TX

[newleaf09]

I had a bone density scan recently, unrelated to TX or hep C.  I was very surprised to learn I had serious thinning of some vertebrae, since I don't have any of the normal risk factors, except liver disease.  
When I looked bone loss up in reference to TX meds I was shocked to see that ribavirin can cause bone loss and that protease inhibitors (took one for 6 mos. of TX) also cause it.  Anybody else happen across bone loss after they finished TX? Anyone happen to have a bone density scan before and after TX to compare?  My question is "Is it reversible after the meds all finally get out of your system"?  

[newleaf09]

They recommend the test 65 but I wanted to get a baseline. I'm 57.  Post menopausal women are more at risk because the bones, which break down and rebuild, stop rebuilding at the normal rate after hormones drop.

orphanedhawk, I hope you are right about reversal.  I have searched the internet and can't find anything about repairing bone loss except with drugs like Boniva and at this point, 5 mos. post-TX, I hope I never have to take another shot of medicine for the rest of my life.  I started calcium & vitamin D supplements but do worry a little about getting too much, since my levels were already good.  I'll know if it is too much when they test me for calcium in 4 weeks at clinic.  

I read that riba can lead to malabsorption by the gut.  Plenty of calcium and Vit. D but you can't absorb it so it can do its job.  I still would have treated even with a warning about bone loss but I want some reassurance that it will reverse.  Thanks to all for input.

[annieCinMD]

I am always careful to take my calcium supplement. As a small framed person, this is a big concern for me. My mother has osteoporosis. I have a doctor's appt Tuesday to discuss my still not being able to sleep good and being all amped up 3 months after tx. I will ask her about the bone density test. I know I have never had one. Not sure if I am not old enough yet or what the criteria is for that. Menopause, maybe?

[charm27]

I had a bone density just as I finishhed tx and  in  that department it showed good bones. No signs of osteoporosis.

Probably something you will never know if it was attributed to tx or not.

Feel well

Take care
Charm

[justme53]

I don't have any comparison or answers for you, but it's a concern of mine as well, especially the longer I am on tx. I had a bone density scan (DEXA) in Oct.2008 prior to starting tx andit came back "normal". I'm curious what the combined effects of the meds and my decreasing levels of exercise will show. I have been taking Calcium and Vit. D. supps throughout, but I don't know if it's enough to balance out the negatives.......

[orphanedhawk]

After years of being thrown off horses with only scrapes and bruises, I broke my arm when I missed the bed and hit the floor one night,4 months after stopping tx.
( Okay, I can be clumsy)

My family doesn't break bones! My 90 year old mother falls out of bed and is only disgruntled.

Yes, since even osteoporosis can be reversed with good diet and exercise, I think you can improve your health after tx. Eat foods rich in calcium, get plenty of vitamin D, and do weight bearing exercise.

But do be careful. And stay off of horses for a while!
OH