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I was diagnosed with osteopenia years before my first cancer diagnosis. I get regular bone density scans and there has been little change in my scores. Now the oncologist for my second time (this time with both radiation and chemo) is talking about starting osteoporosis treatment and warned about jawbone problems. Anyone experienced this?

September 1, 2024
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A MyBCTeam Member

I started a conversation about this very thing this morning. Join in.

September 1, 2024
MyBCTeam

For osteoporosis prevention in the context of breast cancer treatment, certain medications can be administered intravenously (IV). Here are some options:

- Zoledronic Acid (Zometa): Given IV every three to four weeks or every three months to slow down and prevent bone loss
- Denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva): Given as an Show Full Answer

For osteoporosis prevention in the context of breast cancer treatment, certain medications can be administered intravenously (IV). Here are some options:

- Zoledronic Acid (Zometa): Given IV every three to four weeks or every three months to slow down and prevent bone loss.
- Denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva): Given as an injection about once every six months. It attaches to osteoclasts (cells that break down bone) and stops them from dissolving too much bone tissue.

These treatments can help lower the chances of breaking a bone, being diagnosed with hypercalcemia, easing pain, and stopping bone metastases from growing bigger. However, they can cause a rare side effect called osteonecrosis of the jaw, where part of the jawbone dies. It is recommended to get any necessary dental work done before starting these treatments.

September 1, 2024

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