Pamidronate

Pamidronate is a bisphosphonate medication commonly used to treat high levels of calcium in the blood caused by cancers, and to prevent or treat bone complications associated with multiple myeloma and metastatic bone disease. It works by slowing down the breakdown of bone, which helps to reduce calcium levels in the blood and strengthen bones weakened by disease. Pamidronate is often administered through intravenous infusion in a hospital or clinical setting and is a well-established therapy for maintaining bone health in patients with certain types of cancer.

Uses of Pamidronate

• Hypercalcemia of malignancy (high blood calcium due to cancer)
• Bone metastases from breast cancer
• Osteolytic lesions in multiple myeloma
• Paget’s disease of bone

How Pamidronate works

Pamidronate binds to bone surfaces and inhibits osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, reducing calcium release into the blood and helping to preserve bone strength.

Benefits of Pamidronate

• Lowers elevated blood calcium levels
• Strengthens bones weakened by cancer
• Reduces bone pain in cancer patients
• Slows progression of bone disease

How to take Pamidronate

Pamidronate is administered by slow intravenous infusion under medical supervision. The dosage and duration depend on the condition being treated and patient response. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Type of Dosage Available

• Intravenous infusion

Side effects of Pamidronate

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Flu-like symptoms
• Bone or muscle pain
• Low blood calcium levels
• Redness or swelling at injection site

Safety advice

• Not recommended in patients with severe kidney impairment
• Monitor calcium and kidney function regularly during treatment
• Stay well hydrated before and after infusion
• Inform your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding
• Avoid taking other calcium-lowering drugs without consultation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is Pamidronate used for?
A. Pamidronate is used to treat high calcium levels in the blood and prevent bone complications due to cancer.

Q. How is Pamidronate given?
A. It is given as a slow intravenous infusion under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Q. Can Pamidronate cause flu-like symptoms?
A. Yes, it may cause mild flu-like symptoms such as fever and fatigue in some patients.

Q. Is Pamidronate safe in pregnancy?
A. It should only be used in pregnancy if clearly needed. Always consult your doctor before use.

Q. Does Pamidronate affect kidney function?
A. Yes, it can affect kidney function, so regular monitoring is essential during treatment.