(pa-mi-DROE-nate)

NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Ankylosing spondylitis, bone loss reduction in spinal cord injury, hyperparathyroid crisis, McCune-Albright syndrome, postmenopausal osteoporosis, prevention of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism

ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Hypercalcemia (increased calcium levels) associated with malignancy, bone lesions that are associated with breast cancer or multiple myeloma, Paget's disease

BRAND NAME
Aredia

DRUG CLASS
Biphosphonate

DESCRIPTION
This drug reduces bone breakdown by increasing bone mineral density.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Increase in blood pressure, abdominal pain, acid reflux, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low calcium levels, low potassium levels, changes in kidney function, joint aches, bone pain, muscle aches, coughing, shortness of breath, sinusitis, fatigue, fever, pain, anxiety, headache, insomnia, fainting, increased heart rate, changes in heart rate and regularity.

CAUTIONS
  • May cause impairment of kidney function. Require monitoring during therapy. Notify your doctor if you have kidney problems prior to therapy.
  • Low calcium levels have occurred and may require supplemental calcium administration.
  • May require blood monitoring.
  • Osteonecrosis (breakdown of the bone) of the jaw has occurred in cancer patients when taking pamidronate with chemotherapy and corticosteroids.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to starting a new medication, herbal, or non-prescription product.

FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown

HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Unknown

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category D. Excretion in breast milk not known. Do not breast-feed during therapy.

SPECIAL INFORMATION
In 2005, the manufacturer notified health professionals and patients regarding the possibility of osteonecrosis (bone breakdown) in the jaw, mainly in cancer patients who received intravenous bisphosphonates. You should receive a dental examination prior to the initiation of therapy and avoid invasive dental procedure during therapy.

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