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pamidronate - injection, Aredia

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GENERIC NAME: PAMIDRONATE - INJECTION (pam-ih-DRO-nate)

BRAND NAME(S): Aredia

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Pamidronate is used to treat high blood calcium levels and certain bone problems (bone metastases/lesions) that may occur with some types of cancer. It is also used to treat a certain type of bone disease (Paget's disease) that causes abnormal and weak bones.Pamidronate belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates. It works by slowing the release of calcium from bones to lower blood calcium levels, reducing the risk of broken bones (fractures) and reducing bone pain.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by slow injection into a vein for at least 2 hours, but up to 24 hours, or as directed by your doctor.The dosage is based on your medical condition, laboratory tests, and response to treatment. Your doctor will order blood tests to check your kidney function prior to each treatment with this medication. The usual maximum adult dose of this medication is 90 milligrams for a single dose.If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.If you are being treated for a high blood calcium level, you may receive only a single dose of pamidronate. If you are being treated for cancer-related bone problems, you may receive a dose every 3 to 4 weeks. If you are being treated for Paget's disease, you may receive treatment daily for 3 days. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.During treatment with this medication, it is important that you take in plenty of fluids and pass urine frequently to help avoid kidney problems. Intravenous fluids are usually given with this medication. Ask your doctor how much fluid you should drink, and follow these instructions carefully.It may take up to 7 days before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Flu-like symptoms (such as mild fever, chills, fatigue, muscle/joint aches) may occur after treatment. Most of these effects are mild and can last up to 48 hours. Bone pain, redness/swelling/pain at the infusion site, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness or trouble sleeping may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of low calcium such as muscle spasms or numbness/tingling (especially around the lips/mouth). Your doctor may ask you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent low blood calcium levels after treatment.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: trouble breathing, sores in jaw/mouth, jaw pain, increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, eye problems (such as redness/itching/swelling or sensitivity to light), change in the amount of urine, unusual tiredness/weakness, mental/mood changes (such as irritability or confusion), fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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