In 4 years, my T-score dropped from [+2] to [-1.5] . The ONLY life style changes, were "aging 4 years" and increasing synthroid from 50 mcgs OD, to 75 mcgs. OD and adding a thiazide diuretic to my ARB for ^ BP.
I am not overweight, walk 2 miles aday and take total dose of 2000 mgs. CA and 800 mgs. MAG [1/2 in AM & PM] and 100 mcg. Vit K and 1000 IU's of Vitamin D-3 twice a day, plis a multi-vitamin.
The result of a 24 hour urine test & bone markers were inconclusive 
...
Can you help me ??
Hi Melly: Congrats, it sure sounds like you are doing all the right things to stave off osteoporosis.
Most Dr.s believe that synthroid *used over time* will cause some bone loss. I'm not aware of diurectics causing bone loss except for the recent HealthCentral article on loop diuretics, to read the article click this link.
You mentioned that you are not over weight. That's good but you also don't want to be under weight either since low weight can cause bone loss.
Normal bone density is any score better than -1.0
Osteopenia: any score between -1.0 and -2.5
Osteoporosis: any score below -2.5
Your score has dropped quite a bit if it was +2 four years ago, but you are not that far into the osteopenia classification. You still need to watch your score to hopefully prevent it from getting worse, but you are only .5 away from normal bone density. Talk to your Dr about the synthroid and see what he or she says about it. If you must take this med then the benefits probably outweigh the risks, and at some point you may want to think about an osteo med, but that would be entirely up to you. Keep up the good work with exercise and supplements.
Good luck...
Hi Melly: I forgot to put in the link to loop diurectics from HealthCentral, sorry. Here it is, but I'm not sure how it applies to your use of thiazide diurectics, but at least you can read about it.
Good luck again...
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of The HealthCentral Network. The HealthCentral Network does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
