Has your doctor told you to take a shot called Pamidronate? Or is this shot being given to someone in your family? The name may sound a bit strange. But don't worry. This is a very important medicine. Today, let's talk briefly about what we give this medicine for, how it works in the body, and what we need to be careful about.
Simply put, what is Pamidronate?
Pamidronate is an injection given into the body through a vein. It is mainly given for several reasons.
- Cancer can cause increased calcium levels in the blood: Some types of cancer can cause excess calcium to be released from our bones and into the blood. This is not a good situation. Pamidronate works by controlling the release of calcium from the bones. This then brings the calcium levels in the blood back to normal.
- Weakened bones due to cancer: Some types of cancer (for example, multiple myeloma or breast cancer that has spread to the bones) can cause bones to become weak and break easily (fracture). This medicine strengthens the bones and reduces the risk of such fractures.
- Paget's disease of the bone: This is a condition in which the process of bone formation and breakdown is abnormal. This medicine helps control that process.
Simply put, this drug belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates . Its main function is to protect and strengthen bones.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Before deciding to give you this vaccine, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor .
| Your situation | Why is it important to tell the doctor ? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | This medicine is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. If there is a problem with the kidneys, the doctor may need to change the dosage or take other measures. |
| Dental or gum problems (Dental disease) | To prevent a rare complication (osteonecrosis) of the jaw that may occur when taking this medication, it is important to maintain good dental health prior to treatment. |
| Low levels of calcium or other minerals in the blood | Pamidronate can further lower blood calcium levels, so it is important to correct low levels before starting treatment. |
| If you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | This medication can harm the unborn baby, so it is extremely important to talk to your doctor about this. |
| If you are allergic to Pamidronate or other medicines or foods | Unwanted reactions can be avoided by informing the doctor in advance about any allergies. |
How do you get this medicine?
This is not a medicine you can take home. This is an injection into a vein. So it will be given to you in a hospital or clinic, under the supervision of medical staff. The infusion time may vary depending on your condition.
You will be given specific days to take your medication. It is very important to go to the hospital on those days. If for some reason you cannot go, inform your doctor or clinic in advance.
If you suddenly think you have taken too much medicine, do not panic and go to the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things you should be careful about when taking medication
There are a few important things you need to pay attention to when taking this medicine.
Special attention to teeth and jaws
This is very important. A small number of people taking medications like Pamidronate can develop a bone problem called ``Osteonecrosis of the jaw.`` Although this is rare, it is good to be aware of it.
- Tell the dentist:Be sure to tell your dentist that you are taking this medicine.
- Avoid major surgery: As much as possible, avoid major dental surgery, such as tooth extractions, while taking this medication.
- Get your teeth cleaned before treatment: It's best to see a dentist and get all your dental problems fixed before starting this medication.
- Oral Health: Brush your teeth thoroughly every day and maintain good oral health.
Bone, joint and muscle pain
Some people may experience severe pain in their bones, joints, or muscles while taking this medicine. There is also a small risk of a thigh bone fracture. If you experience severe pain in your jaw, bones, or joints that you cannot tolerate , do not ignore it and tell your doctor right away.
Calcium and vitamin D
It is important to make sure your body is getting enough calcium and vitamin D while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor about the foods and vitamins you are taking and take additional supplements if necessary.
Blood tests and pregnancy
While you are taking the medication, your doctor will order periodic blood tests to check your kidney function and blood mineral levels.
Most importantly, if you are planning to become pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. This medicine can seriously harm an unborn baby.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, Pamidronate can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it's important to be aware of them.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Low calcium in the blood | Muscle twitching or pain, numbness, confusion. |
| Osteonecrosis of the jaw | Pain in the mouth or jaw, swelling, redness, numbness in the jaw, or failure to heal where a tooth was extracted. |
| Severe bone or joint pain | An unbearable, continuous pain. |
| Symptoms that are usually nothing to worry about, but if they persist, you should tell your doctor. | |
| Fever | A slight fever may occur for the first day or two after the medication is given. |
| Fatigue | Feeling of lifelessness. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Appetite | Decreased appetite. |
| Constipation | Difficulty going to the toilet. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything else that is different or unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Pamidronate is an intravenous injection that treats conditions such as high blood calcium levels and bone weakness caused by cancer.
- Before starting this medication, you should tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions (especially kidney and dental problems) and other medications you are taking.
- Take great care of your dental health while taking the medication. Avoid major dental surgeries.
- If you notice anything like severe bone pain, jaw pain, allergy symptoms, or a decrease in urine output, notify your doctor immediately.
- This medicine is not suitable if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about this.
- If you have any questions, concerns, or doubts about this medication, never be afraid to ask your doctor.
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