That Boniva commercial makes people with osteoporosis sound like some lazy mofos.

[LostInAnomie]

Sally Field comes on and says how her friend complains that she has to set time aside each week to take her osteoporosis pill, but Boniva's once a month dose she can handle.

Honestly, how much time do you have to set aside to take a pill? And, how hard is it to fit it into your schedule?

[Calliope]

1. It requires at least a half an hour where you are sitting upright

and you cannot eat. I realize that the commercial sounds like its just a matter of popping a pill, but there's more to it.

[sleepyhead]

2. Boniva requires a whole hour.

And actually, 30 minutes isn't that hard to do. I take my Fosamax first thing Saturday morning, then go about my regular morning tasks (feed the cats, clean the litter box, check my email) and 30 minutes is over before I know it. Then I can have breakfast and leave for spinning class. You don't have to sit still, you just have to avoid lying down or slumping over (and you need to drink 8 oz of water). I think an hour of enforced idleness and not eating would be excessive - I would be getting impatient to start my day.

[mzteris]

3. no just 1/2 hour

once a month instead of once a week.

If I "forget" it for a day or two once a week - I'm screwed. Once a month. No problem. I'm *supposed* to take it on the 15th - and I've yet to take it this month. Maybe in the morning. :shrug:

The other reason - digestive tract issues. My mother had to stop taking Fosamax (pre-Boniva) because of the gastric issues. She was in severe pain. There wasn't an alternative so her osteo got way worse. It really bothers me, too. I'm extremely glad I only have to take it once a month. I have some minor pain for a couple of days every time I take it.

[murielm99]

4. Wow.

I did not know any of this.

Of course, the commercials aren't going to tell the whole truth.

[mzteris]

6. still - the alternative -

(worsening osteo) isn't pleasant either.

I don't know how much it helps - but hopefully it does some.

[Left Is Write]

10. That's why the commercial says the drug isn't for people who can't sit or stand for at least 30 min.

[sleepyhead]

5. It would be just the opposite for me.

I'm sure I would forget if it was just once a month. Once a week is easy for me to remember. I do feel a tiny bit queasy for an hour or so after I take it (maybe because my stomach is empty?) but nothing major. Guess I am lucky.

[mzteris]

8. You're right - it's an HOUR for Boniva

I reread the package directions.

(I'm very forgetful these days. It's driving me and everyone around me crazy!)

[TheCentepedeShoes]

7. Mr 'pede HATES

that commercial. Says Sally needs to find some new friends. Hits the mute button so he doesn't have to hear it.

[peekaloo]

9. Poor Gidget can't fidget for a whole hour once a month.

All those beach parties and flying around in her younger days have taken their toll.

:dunce:

[Midlodemocrat]

11. It's directed at people who are currently taking other osteoporosis

therapies.

You have to be able to sit/stand for 1/2 hour each time you take it, which, if you are in the advanced stages of osteoporosis, might not be pleasant.

The once a month therapy is designed to help patients with compliance.

[MonkeyFunk]

12. Ya gotta give credit where credit is due...

she looks damn good for 60!