Case Evaluation

Aredia: Frequently Asked Questions About Aredia

What is Aredia?

Aredia (pamidronate) is used to treat hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood) that may occur with some types of cancer. It is also used to treat Paget's disease, a medical condition in which the body replaces healthy bones with weak bones, as well as to treat bone metastasis (spread of cancer). Aredia is an intravenous bisphosphonate drug made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1994.

Are there any special instructions for taking Aredia?

Because Aredia is administered intravenously, it should only be administered by or under the supervision of your doctor or healthcare professional. Make sure to combine your treatment with regular visits to your healthcare professional, and to follow your healthcare professional's orders regarding Aredia dosing. For patients using Aredia to treat hypercalcemia, your healthcare professional may recommend following a low-calcium diet.

What are the side effects associated with Aredia?

Aredia may cause side effects. Tell your healthcare professional if any of these symptoms are severe and/or persistent: bone, joint, or muscle pain, slight fever, loss of appetite, upset stomach, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, heartburn, weakness, dizziness, headache, or increased sweating.

Tell your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any of the following: seizures; eye pain, swelling, itching, or redness; blurred vision or changes in vision; sensitivity to light; fast or irregular heartbeat; fainting; sore throat, high fever, chills, cough, or other signs of infection; unusual bruising or bleeding; black and tarry stools; red blood in stools; bloody vomit; vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds; shortness of breath or fast breathing; chest pain; numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, lips, tongue, or the area around the mouth; muscle cramps, spasms, or sudden muscle tightening; depression; personality changes; difficult, frequent, or painful urination; swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; hives; rash; or itching. You should tell your healthcare if you have or had any unusual allergic reaction to Aredia or other medications used to treat a high blood calcium or osteoporosis; if you are allergic to any other substances (foods, preservatives, or dyes); are or may be pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding; have blood problems (such as anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia); have heart problems; or have kidney problems.

Are there any interactions between Aredia and other drugs or foods?

Aredia and certain other medicines can interact with each other. Tell your healthcare professional about all the medicines you take - including prescription and non-prescription medicines.

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