Pamidronate - 1262675

gigy
Posts:27

Thank you so much for your responses to my previous question "whole body scan" Your answers always give me a light to look forward, thanks.

In my PET report, it states: " Moderately hyper metabolic sclerosis in the right scapula
is suspicious for metastatic osseous involvement." My right shoulder is very sore for about 6 weeks.
This sounds not 100% confirmed, yet the doctor wants me to start with Pamidronate while i am waiting for the result of EGFR for next treatment. (need a week)
Is it a good approach? adverse effects?
Thank you.
Gigy

Forums

Dr West
Posts: 4735

Pamidronate is commonly used in this setting for many cancers, but it's not as well established in improving outcomes for lung cancer patients as much as Zometa (zoledronic acid) and XGEVA (denosumab). All of these agents have a very small risk of a serious side effect called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) (which you can read more about by searching on this website or elsewhere online), kidney problems, and low blood levels of calcium.

-Dr. West