Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PAMIDRONATE - INJECTION

(pam-ih-DRO-nate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aredia

Uses

This medication acts on bone to help regulate blood calcium levels. It is used to treat Paget's disease of bone and to treat high blood calcium levels. The medication has also been used in the treatment of osteoporosis, to reduce bone pain associated with certain illnesses and to treat bone loss due to breast cancer.

How To Use

This medication is given as an injection as directed. For high calcium levels, usually one dose is given. Based on your condition and response, a repeat dose may be given after 7 days. For Paget's disease, an IV infusion is given usually once a day for 3 days. Do not exceed the recommended dose. It is important to maintain an adequate diet while taking this medication. Be sure you receive proper amounts of calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Discuss this with your doctor or nutritionist.

Side Effects

Mild fever, redness, swelling or pain at injection site, stomach pain, loss of appetite, nausea, constipation or initial increase in bone pain may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: stiff muscles, difficulty moving, rapid heart rate, weakness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm. Consult your doctor for more details. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Report the use of other drugs which might be potentially toxic to the kidney such as: aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, amikacin), amphotericin B, cyclosporine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen), tacrolimus, vancomycin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include muscle cramps, fever, change in taste, or severe dizziness.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., kidney function tests) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed Dose

It is important to receive each dose as scheduled. If you miss a dose, contact your health care provider to determine a new schedule if necessary. As with most medications, do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

This medication is prepared just prior to use. Store as directed. The reconstituted vial can be stored under refrigeration at 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) for 24 hours. The infusion solution is stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature.