Any recommendations/tips?

[Akita123]

My husband is starting Zometa tomorrow/mon and will have his 1st RA223 treatment on tues. Any recommendations to minimize his side effects? I believe I read somewhere that drinking sports drinks might possibly be of assistance? Thank you for any advice.

[NecessarilySo]

My suggestion is to just read and read again whatever you can find about the treatments, side effects, etc. Here are some quick research sites.

Zometa

drugs.com/zometa.html

Xofigo (RA223)

xofigohcp.com/?utm_source=b...

Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in the Xofigo arm vs the placebo arm, respectively, were nausea (36% vs 35%), diarrhea (25% vs 15%), vomiting (19% vs 14%), and peripheral edema (13% vs 10%). Grade 3 and 4 adverse events were reported in 57% of Xofigo-treated patients and 63% of placebo-treated patients. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities in the Xofigo arm (≥10%) vs the placebo arm, respectively, were anemia (93% vs 88%), lymphocytopenia (72% vs 53%), leukopenia (35% vs 10%), thrombocytopenia (31% vs 22%), and neutropenia (18% vs 5%)

[Akita123 in reply to NecessarilySo]

Thank you!

[j-o-h-n in reply to Akita123]

How to minimize side effects of Zometa

A I - ChatGPT said:

Zometa (zoledronic acid) is a bisphosphonate used to treat bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis, hypercalcemia of malignancy, and bone metastases. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, bone/joint pain, nausea, fatigue, and kidney issues. Here are some ways to minimize side effects:

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water before and after the infusion to help protect your kidneys and reduce flu-like symptoms.

2. Take Acetaminophen or NSAIDs

Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen before and after the infusion can help manage flu-like symptoms, fever, and bone pain.

3. Supplement with Calcium & Vitamin D

Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake to help prevent low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia), which can cause muscle cramps and tingling sensations.

Your doctor may recommend calcium (500-1200 mg/day) and vitamin D (800-2000 IU/day).

4. Infusion Timing & Frequency

Slower infusions (over at least 15 minutes) may reduce the risk of kidney-related side effects.

If you've had previous strong reactions, discuss with your doctor about adjusting the frequency or dosage.

5. Manage Nausea

Eat small, light meals before and after treatment.

Ginger tea or anti-nausea medications (e.g., ondansetron) may help.

6. Prevent Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ)

Maintain good oral hygiene and get a dental check-up before starting treatment.

Avoid major dental work (extractions, implants) during treatment.

7. Rest & Self-Care

Fatigue is common, so rest as needed and avoid overexertion after an infusion.

8. Report Unusual Symptoms

Contact your doctor if you experience severe pain, swelling, kidney issues (decreased urination, swelling), or signs of low calcium (muscle spasms, numbness).

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n

[Akita123 in reply to j-o-h-n]

Thank you j-o-h-n!!

[GardenReno]

I’ve been on zometa for about 2 years. First infusion made me feel a bit like had flu for a few days. Last few shots no side effects. I wouldn’t be too concerned

[Akita123 in reply to GardenReno]

Thank you, that's very encouraging.

[Kaliber]

generally ….. before the infusion, take an OTC antihistamine , I use chlorpheniramine ( Equate chlorine ) and take a bottle of electrolyte replenishing sports drink. I like grape. Take the antihistamine a couple hours before ( to manage the flu like se’s ) and start drinking the sports drink ( guzzle several if possible ) to reduce the possibility of kidney damage and flush out the Zometa asap.

I’ve had more than 60 zometa infusions and being a “ super responder “ I experienced nearly all of the ugliest S.E.s too. If he had more severe side effects than mentioned here, contact your medical team right away and you can p.m. me for my opinion on how to manage the most severe side effects. ( freezing chills, inability to breathe properly , a side effect of panic … sickness etc )

Some things that have worked for me may be beneficial to him as well. I’ve always considered zometa treatments vital to me with extensive, skeletal wide, mets.

Best wishes

❤️❤️❤️

[Akita123 in reply to Kaliber]

Thank you so much Kaliber! I've received great inspiration from your posts. Hubby had Zometa on monday and Radium 223 on tues and is doing fine! I keep telling him he's an absolute beast! A little fatigue was all so far. He's been very fortunate with SE's. Only cabazataxel knocked him for a loop. All the best to you!

[Kaliber in reply to Akita123]

Thank you

❤️❤️❤️