Experience with Zometa for AI-induced osteoporosis?

I’ve had one infusion with Zometa. I took a Claritin 30 minutes prior. I also asked the infusion nurse to infuse over 30 minutes. I was tired the day after but continued the Claritin for a couple days. I do take Claritin occasionally for my bone pain while on letrozole. It was very manageable.

Thank you so very very much!!

1st treatment I had side effects (body aches/chills like the flu for about 2 days). Have had 2 more infusions since then with no side effects.

Thx you Pam! How often are you having the infusions if you are open to share?

Of course - every six months, so I am half way there

Congratulations and thank you for the inspiring message. Hang tough!! :)

Well I take letrozole but I don't get infusions. Im wondering if I should be . I got injection of prolia.

I wonder if doing things like weight bearing exercises, increase protein intake, supplements and etc would make a difference and maybe not need to take those infusions? I am on the AI letrozole and just don't want to add another medication. But if course if I have to I will.

I get the Zometa infusions every 3 months. I know some receive it more frequently. So far Claritin has helped. I only take it for a couple days and it subsides.

My first Zometa infusion was with prednisone and a 90 minute Zometa (5 mg) drip. I had the worst experience. Flu like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, joint pain out of this world. I mentioned this to my oncologist and he reduced the dosage to 3 mg. I am doing a lot better, but I still have nausea and vomiting and my joints and sensitive skin still occur. I now go every 3 months because the creatinine levels are elevated.

Thanks for sharing this Diane, so helpful.

I had my 1st infusion of Zometa and I experienced flu-like symptoms for about two days. I should take them every 6 months, but that’s on hold now because I need extensive dental work. I’m losing my teeth due to chemo & radiation.

Thx you Jeanine. Take care and best wishes managing all that. Keep fighting!

I have been on infusions every 6 months for past 2 years. I just completed the 4th and final in January. My first infusion caused flu like symptoms for 2 days. Every subsequent treatment had no reactions. I have been on Anestrozole for 2 years. I'm 77 yrs old Seems like most people have similar experiences like me. Good luck with yours.

Thx you Charlotte. Greatly appreciated this.

I started letrozole in October 2023 also. Joint pain manageable with strong acetaminophen every day and most important, exercise. I have had one Zometa infusion so far and no problem with that. I am scheduled for Z every 6 months for 2 years, I think. Maybe longer. Don’t remember. Oops! Hope I stay cancer-free. You too! I think we do need the chemical boost to offset the certain osteoporosis problem. We probably can’t do it with simply adjusting our eating. My three cents. Live today is my mantra. Hugs to all.

Thx you thx you!!

What is Zometa? Getting my first bone density scan since starting letrozole January 28th of 2024. I have not had problems with pain until the last couple of weeks having lots of bone pain. I've been taking celebrex for arthritis for about 8 years and thought it was going to be enough to help with the pain

Zometa and Reclast are both Zoledronic Acid IV infusions to reduce bone loss from the aromatase inhibitors like Letrozole, Arimidex, and Exemestane.

Took Claritin daily starting the week before. Also, asked for additional IV fluids to be hung along with the Zometa infusion. No side effects at all. 

Why Claritin? Isn’t that for allergies ?

Susan S, when your bone marrow is stimulated to produce white and red blood cells and new bone histamines are released which can result in pain. Any antihistamine will help with the bone pain associated with the histamine release.

Managing treatment side effects like osteoporosis from aromatase inhibitors is a common concern in this community, and bone health treatments like Zometa can be an important part of care. Connecting with others who have navigated similar experiences can provide valuable insights about what to expect and how to manage any side effects that may occur.