I’ve mentioned a few times that I already have the beginning stages of osteoporosis. Doctors often call this peri osteoporosis (meaning near) because the symptoms will continue to develop with age. It was certainly not a part of Enduring Epilepsy I expected, but I’ve actually been taking preventative steps to help take care of my bones since my early twenties (more than five years). Most people, including some of my doctors, are surprised by this until I tell them that I’ve been taking anti-seizure medication since I was 2.
That’s right… taking anti-seizure medication, particularly some of the older medicines, can contribute to your risk of osteoporosis.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis, also known as brittle bone disease, means “porous bone”. Over time the bones gradually lose density. The result is weak, thin bones which are more prone to break. Doctors perform a test called dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan to measure bone mineral density. The scan is used to diagnose and evaluate ongoing osteoporosis. The results are reported as a T-score and Z-score:
- T-score compares your bone density with that of healthy young women
- Z-score compares your bone density with that of other people of your age, gender, and race
A negative number in either score means thinner bones than is the expected standard and being at a higher risk for potential bone fracture.
Your Brain and Your Bones
So what does this have to do with epilepsy? Well, here’s where I have some bad news for you. Taking anti-seizure medications has been shown to increase the rate of bone loss. In some cases it actually doubled. So while taking a certain seizure medicine may help to treat your seizures, you should think about your bones too. Studies have shown patients who took Tegretol, Carbatrol, Phenobarbitol, Mysoline and Dilantin are at a greater risk for developing osteoporosis. Other medicines, including Neurontin, Keppra, Topamax, and Lamictal, are currently being investigated.
Staying Strong
I definitely didn’t anticipate having the beginning stages of osteoporosis in my twenties. But I took Tegretol, Phenobarbitol and Dilantin, at different times, trying to control my seizures. So now, I’m having annual DEXA scans and taking steps to help make sure I keep my bones strong.
Find out if epilepsy could be contributing to your risk for osteoporosis by talking to your doctor
Ask about having a bone density scan. If you have or are developing osteoporosis there are medications for treatment known as bisphosphonates, such as Actonel, Fosamax, Boniva, or Prolia. You can also help prevent bone loss by making healthy choices including:
- Exercise regularly (walking or strength training)
- Eat calcium-rich food
- Take calcium/vitamin D supplement daily
- Consider other vitamin supplements (magnesium, melatonin, potassium, vitamins C & K, zinc)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol intake
- Don’t smoke
Do what you can today to keep your bones strong tomorrow
