Bone strengthening treatments such as Bisphosphonate medication is often used as a cancer treatment, these medications include
Bisphosphonate
- Zoledronic Acid (often called Zometa)
- Pamidronate
Monoclonal anti-body
- Denosumab
These are medications commonly used to treat osteoporosis (bone thining) but they also used as a cancer treatment, uses in cancer include
- to strengthen bones where bone metastases may cause bones to become weaker, this treatment aims to reduce the risk of bone fractures
- to reduce bone pain linked to bone metastases
- to manage and prevent high calcium levels in the blood which can happen with some forms of cancer
- to reduce the risk of cancer recurrance in the bones
These bone strengthening treatments can be given in tablet form but is most often given as an injection under the skin or as a short intravenous (into a vein) infusion.
Side effects of bone strengthening treatments are usually mild and short lasting, but include
- bone pains
- flu-like symptoms
- reduced calcium levels - you may be asked to take calcium supplements to help with this
- constipation or diarrhoea
- tiredness
ONJ
One further side effect of this type of medication is a problem with the jaw called ONJ (osteo-necrosis of the jaw). This is not a common problem occuring in up to 2% of patients recieving this treatment. ONJ can cause pain in the jaw and wound healing problems in this area.
We would encourage you to have regular dental check ups and look after your teeth whilst on this medication. If you do need any dental procedures such as a tooth removal while on this medication please make sure your dentist knows that you are taking this medication and ask your cancer nurse for advice. We may advice you to stop your bone strengthening for a short time while you have your dental work completed.
Click here for more information on dental hygiene.
