Side effects of Actonel

[Guest guest]

Hello,

I am more of a lurker here and love this group. I am 36 and have been diagnosed

with OA and RA. My bloodwork shows RF factor to be negative though and I'm not

sure what that means exactly.

My OA has affected my major joints over the last years. At 27, I needed both my

hips replaced and just this summer had my knee replaced.

I see a Rheumatologist who monitors my other pains. My hands tend to cramp up

very bad espicially in colder seasons. I have severe degenerative arthritis of

the spine and herniated discs on the c-level. I have also seen to a Neurosurgeon

for this and will be getting MRI's of the c-spine soon. I have neck and back

pain and have been taking Mobic since Vioxx went off the market. In addition, I

go to PT 2-3 times a week which helps. When I get a bad flare up, my

Rheumatologist gives me a Medrol pack.

Since my hand x-rays show that I have Osteopenia, thinning of the bones, my

Rheumatologist prescribed me 1) Actonel (to prevent fracture and Osteoporosis),

2) Calcium with vitamin D, and 3) Miacalcin Nasal spray. I have been taking all

three medications since October 2006.

However, since this past Saturday, I've noticed a pain in the left side of my

forehead near the eyebrow and ear area. It feels as though I bumped my head but

I didn't have any accidents or falls. I am wondering if anyone has experienced

this type of side effect with taking any of the three medications mentioned

above.

I called my Rheumatologist to notify her of this and she advised me to take

tylenol for this " headache " which is only hurting my left side. She said that

if it doesn't subside, to call again and she may need to take me off the

medication...but which one? All three prescription info pamphlet lists

headaches as a possible side effect. Anyone have experience with this?

Thanks for any info you can provide, much appreciated!!

Sincerely,