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Anyone know anything about the infusion that's meant to protect bones after chemo is complete?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
San Antonio, TX

I just found out I have to get an infusion every six months (i couldn't quite catch the name) and that there are sometimes flu like side effects.

September 8 (edited)
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A MyBCTeam Member

I think Zometa is the most common infusion used for osteopenia, not just in breast cancer

September 8
A MyBCTeam Member

I take Anastrozole every day since January 2020 and will take for 10 years. I also have the Zometa infusion every 6 months since March 2020. It was recommended to take a Claritin every day for 5 days before the infusion to counteract the flu like symptoms. The only time I had the flu like symptoms was when I forgot to take the Claritin. Never forgot to take the Claritin again. I have my bone density in October and they will let me know if they want me to continue the Zometa infusion. The infusion has helped with numbers from last bone density.

September 27
MyBCTeam

It sounds like the infusion being referred to could be a bone-strengthening medication, likely a bisphosphonate (such as zoledronic acid) or denosumab. These are commonly prescribed after breast cancer treatment to help protect bone density.

Some breast cancer treatments — especially those that lower estrogen levels — can Show Full Answer

It sounds like the infusion being referred to could be a bone-strengthening medication, likely a bisphosphonate (such as zoledronic acid) or denosumab. These are commonly prescribed after breast cancer treatment to help protect bone density.

Some breast cancer treatments — especially those that lower estrogen levels — can weaken bones over time, which is why these infusions are recommended. Flu-like symptoms are a known side effect of these bone-protecting infusions. Other things to be aware of include:

- Jaw issues — a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) can occur, causing jaw pain, loose teeth, or infection
- Bone, joint, or muscle pain
- It's a good idea to visit a dentist *before* starting this treatment as a precaution

The good news is that serious side effects like ONJ are quite rare, affecting only around 2% of people who take these medications.

It's worth asking your care team to confirm the exact name of the infusion so you know exactly what to expect. Don't hesitate to ask them to write it down — no question is too small!

September 8
A MyBCTeam Member

That's good to know about the Claritin. I'll buy some before my next infusion.

September 27

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