Aredia (Pamidronate Disodium) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 24, 2012

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Osteoporosis »

Osteoporosis facts

Osteoporosis is a condition of increased susceptibility to fracture due to fragile bone.
Osteoporosis weakens bone and increases risk of bone fracture.
Bone mass (bone density) decreases after 35 years of age and decreases more rapidly in women after menopause.
Key risk factors for osteoporosis include genetics, lack of exercise, lack of calcium and vitamin D, personal history of fracture as an adult, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, history of rheumatoid arthritis, low body weight, and family history of osteoporosis.
Patients with osteoporosis have no symptoms until bone fractures occur.
The diagnosis of osteoporosis can be suggested by X-rays and confirmed by tests to measure bone density.
Treatments for osteoporosis, in addition to prescription osteoporosis medications, include stopping use of alcohol and cigarettes, and assur...

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SIDE EFFECTS: Flu-like symptoms (such as mild fever, chills, fatigue, muscle/joint aches) may occur after treatment. Most of these effects are mild and can last up to 48 hours. Bone pain, redness/swelling/pain at the infusion site, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness or trouble sleeping may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of low calcium such as muscle spasms or numbness/tingling (especially around the lips/mouth). Your doctor may ask you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent low blood calcium levels after treatment.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: trouble breathing, sores in jaw/mouth, jaw pain, increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, eye problems (such as redness/itching/swelling or sensitivity to light), change in the amount of urine, unusual tiredness/weakness, mental/mood changes (such as irritability or confusion), fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using pamidronate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or other bisphosphonates (such as alendronate); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: recent or planned dental procedures (such as tooth removal), parathyroid/thyroid surgery, kidney problems, severe loss of body water (dehydration), heart failure.

Infrequently, people taking this class of medication (bisphosphonates) have had serious jawbone problems (osteonecrosis). Lack of proper dental hygiene, poorly fitting dentures, or certain dental procedures (such as tooth extraction, dental surgery) may increase your risk. Medical conditions (such as gum disease/infection, cancer, anemia) might also increase the risk. If you develop jaw pain, tell your doctor and dentist immediately.

Before having any surgery (especially dental procedures), tell your doctor and dentist about this medication and all other products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your doctor or dentist may tell you to stop taking pamidronate before your surgery. Ask for specific instructions about stopping or starting this medication.

This medication may cause severe kidney problems. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. To help prevent harm to your kidneys, drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor. (See also How to Use section.)

Rarely, this drug may make some people dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Caution is advised if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may stay in your body for several years and may harm an unborn baby. Consult your doctor for information on reliable forms of birth control.

It is unknown if pamidronate passes into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before breast-feeding.