Pamidronate disodium

About pamidronate disodium

Pamidronate disodium, a bisphosphonate, is prescribed for a number of different problems which affect bones. It can be prescribed to ease bone pain or to reduce hypercalcaemia associated with some cancers. It is also prescribed for people with Paget's disease of bone to prevent bone damage.

In some cancers there can be an excessive breakdown of bone. As this happens, calcium is lost from the bone and seeps into the blood, leading to higher than normal levels of calcium in the blood. This is called hypercalcaemia. Pamidronate disodium binds to bone and reduces the rate at which it is broken down. This helps strengthen bones by preventing the loss of calcium and this reduces the high levels of calcium in the blood.

In Paget's disease of bone, pamidronate disodium works on bones to make them stronger and help prevent bone thickening. This helps ease symptoms such as pain, bone damage and fracture.

Before having pamidronate disodium

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start treatment it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you are due to have any dental treatment in the near future, or if you have not recently had a dental check-up.

• If you have a heart condition.

• If you have any problems with the way your kidneys work, or the way your liver works.

• If you have ever had any surgery on your thyroid gland.

• If you have been told you have low amounts of calcium in your blood.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How you will be given pamidronate disodium

• Before you start the treatment, ask to read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about pamidronate disodium and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from having it.

• Pamidronate disodium will be given to you in a hospital clinic. It will be made up by the hospital staff and administered by intravenous infusion - this means that it is added into an injection fluid and injected slowly (over an hour or so) into one of your veins.

• The number of doses you require will depend upon the reason why it has been prescribed for you. Some people require only a single dose, others require a short course of treatment.
  

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is important that you do not become dehydrated during treatment with pamidronate disodium. Your doctor will probably advise you drink a couple of glassfuls of water before and after your treatment.

• You may feel tired or dizzy for up to 24 hours after having the infusion. You should not drive yourself home after your treatment. Do not drive and do not use tools or machines if you are affected.

• It may be necessary for you to take tablets of calcium and vitamin D as a supplement alongside this treatment. If so, your doctor will prescribe this for you.

• Good dental hygiene is important during treatment with this medicine - this means that you must brush your teeth regularly and have regular dental check-ups. Tell your dentist that you are having treatment with pamidronate disodium, as some dental treatments may not be recommended for you.

• Remember to follow any lifestyle advice your doctor has given you. Eating a well-balanced diet, stopping smoking and taking regular exercise can help bones stay strong.

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored. You will need to have regular blood tests during this treatment.

Can pamidronate disodium cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with pamidronate disodium. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

Important information about all medicines