ZOMETA
I Am 5 years out from IDC post chemo and now have a new Med Oncologist due to insurance changes he wants me to start Zometa for bone loss. I was considered osteopenic at last DEXTA scan 2024 but I am also 60 years old, was also listed as osteopenic on the 1st scan in 2020. My T score for my hips improved and my T score for my spine is the same. I was stage 2 but no lymph node involvement. Did chemo as a preventive (ACT). Have been taking Femra for the last 5 years. This new Oncologist seem kinda aggressive compared to my other MD Onc. I have read the side effects and though they don't seem that bad I have to ask is it really necessary? Just looking for some other peoples experiences with this. These forums were a great help when I was going through Chemo.
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My endocrinologist doesn’t think that bone strengtheners are necessary when in the osteopenia range. I’ve cycled on and off a few times when my T-scores dropped but always took alendronate because it clears the system more quickly if invasive dental work needs to be done. I do have bad teeth. Zometa provides a bit of protection against bone mets but osteonecrosis of the jawbone is more likely on it. Having dealt with jawbone osteomyelitis I don’t want to risk ONJ. If you are having regular DEXA scans you should have an indication of when you need one of these meds. Good luck with your decision.
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I am also 60, stage 2 no lymph node involvement. I did THP, Kadcyla, and am now on anastrozole. I, too, have osteopenia and my MO recommended Zometa. I am having 6 infusions over 3 years (just had the third). I met with my dentist before hand and he believes the risk of ONJ is pretty low at that dosing schedule. It's not zero, but for me I feel like the (hopefully) benefits are worth it. I'm not going to lie- that first infusion has awful side effects!! Subsequent ones have been ok. I started after I finished Kadcyla, so about 18 months after initial diagnosis.
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