Pamidronate (Aredia): What to Expect, Side Effects, and More

Pamidronate is used to reduce bone pain and other complications caused by breast cancer that has spread to the bone.
 

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer that has spread to your bones, you may be treated with Pamidronate (brand name: Aredia) in addition to chemotherapy medicines. Pamidronate helps to slow the breakdown of bone.

See Aredia prescribing information.

 

How Pamidronate works

Pamidronate is a type of medicine called a bisphosphonate.  When breast cancer spreads (or metastasizes) to the bone, it activates cells called osteoclasts, which break down bones. Bisphosphonates work by limiting the activity of osteoclasts.

The destruction of bone may also increase blood calcium, which is called hypercalcemia. Bisphosphonates also can help keep blood calcium levels normal.

Zometa is another bisphosphonate that is used more commonly than Aredia. 

 

What to expect during Pamidronate treatment

Pamidronate is given intravenously. The typical dosage for bone metastasis is 90 mg as a 2-hour infusion every 3 to 4 weeks.

Moderate hypercalcemia

The recommended dose of Aredia for moderate hypercalcemia is 60 to 90 mg. The 60-mg dose is given as an initial, single-dose, intravenous infusion over at least 4 hours. The 90-mg dose must be given by an initial, single-dose, intravenous infusion over up to 24 hours.

Severe hypercalcemia

The recommended dose of Aredia in severe hypercalcemia is 90 mg given by an initial, single-dose, intravenous infusion over up to 24 hours.

 

Pamidronate side effects

Like almost all breast cancer medicines, pamidronate can cause side effects, some of them severe.

The most common side effects of pamidronate are:

Because pamidronate is given with chemotherapy, you may also experience chemotherapy side effects. 

Exposure to Pamidronate is dangerous for an unborn child. You shouldn’t be given to you if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. The medicine may also affect your fertility, so talk to your doctor if you have concerns. 

 

Real patient reviews

Members of our community discuss their experiences with pamidronate in the community forum. Here are some of their comments. Remember, it's very important to talk to your doctor about any side effects you're having and ask about ways to manage them.

“Got my 2nd infusion of Aredia today. Quick! No side effects!” —beergirl

“I just finished up two years of Aredia. No bone pain but some flu-like symptoms, especially if they tried to run the infusion too fast.” —exbrnxgrl

Read more in our Pamidronate (Aredia) discussion forum.

 

Paying for Pamidronate

The cost of pamidronate may vary. The price you’ll pay depends on the drug manufacturer, your health insurance provider and plan, where you live, and the pharmacy you use. You may also be charged for the office visits required for pamidronate infusions.

Note: Your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization before covering pamidronate. 

Learn more about financial assistance and medicine cost-lowering tips.

— Last updated on December 21, 2024 at 6:14 PM