What is Aredia?

Aredia, also known as pamidronate, treats an ailment characterized by an excess in calcium in the blood called hypercalcemia that may have some form of cancer. It is also known to cure Paget’s illness where strong bones turned weak. Aredia also treats bone metastasis where there is already a spread of cancer.

Aredia refers to an intravenous bisphosphonate medicine which was developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and was granted approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or FDA in 1994.

Is there any latest updates about Aredia?

It was in September 2004 when Novartis Pharmaceuticals and the US-FDA advised the dental healthcare specialists about some changes in giving information that defines the occurrences in Osteonecrosis of the Jaw or ONJ which are detected among cancer patients having treatments with intravenous bisphosphonates including Areadia. The modified way of prescribing the information suggests that the cancer patients should have a dental examination before the bisphosphonate procedure and they should refrain from invasive dental treatments while undergoing the procedure.

What is this Osteonecrosis of the Jaw or ONJ?

The Osteonecrosis of the Jaw or ONJ, also called as “jaw death,” is a condition where the jawbone collapses partly and deteriorates. It may produce pain, loss of teeth, bones are exposed, fails to work, and jaw may look disfigured.

Is there any special directions in taking Aredia? 

Since Aredia is designed as intravenous procedure, it must be given by or under the direction of the physician or healthcare expert. It is recommended that with this treatment, it will work best if it is combined with regular visits to healthcare specialists and adhere to their recommendations in taking the Aredia doses. Those patients taking Aredia to cure hyperalcemia may suggest a low-calcium diet.

What are the possible side effects of Aredia?

Side effects from Aredia medications may include muscle, bone, or joint pains, upset stomach, stomach ache, appetite loss, light fever, headache, constipation, vomiting, heartburn, weakness, excess sweating, and dizziness. If you are experiencing these symptoms persistently, inform your physician immediately.

Notify your physician right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Blurred vision or any change in vision
• Eye pain, swelling, itching or redness in the eyes
• Sensitivity to the light
• Irregular or fast heartbeat
• Seizures
• Sore throat
• High fever
• Chills
• Cough

And other signs of infection, such as

• Black and tarry stools
• Red blood in the stools
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Vomit appears like coffee beans
• Vomiting with blood
• Fast breathing or shortness of breathing
• Pain in the chest
• Numbness of tingling in arms, legs, tongue, lips, or in parts around the mouth
• Spasms
• Muscle cramps and sudden tightening of the muscles
• Depression
• Changes in personality
• Frequent, difficult, or painful urinating
• Swelling of face, throat, lips, tongue, eyes, hands, feet, ankle and lower legs
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Hives, rash or itching

What are the things my physician or healthcare specialist needs to know before he/she prescribes Aredia?

Inform your physician or healthcare specialist if you have/had any allergic reactions to Aredia or other treatments for osteoporosis; if you have any allergy to any substance such as foods, preservatives, or dyes; if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding; if you have any problems or issues in blood like leukopenia, anemia, or thrombocytopenia; if you have heart or kidney problems.

Is there any connection between Aredia and other medications or foods?

Aredia and some medications can relate with one another. Inform your physician or healthcare expert about the medicines you are taking or have taken, which includes prescription and non-prescription medications.

What must I do if I have been hurt due to Aredia?

If you or someone you know experience any serious symptom or unusual medical condition while taking Aredia, you should inform immediately your physician or any healthcare professional. You may also go to an experienced lawyer to discuss and deliberate on options and safeguard your rights to a legal solution for any damage due to Aredia.