Pamidronate

[Cannuck]

Has anyone else been receiving pamidronate instead of Zometa? Shortly after receiving my first treatments my bones just ache. Then it seemed to subside. I had to miss a couple of treatments due to covid, after my first treatment I was sore again. I have numerous bone Mets from the top of my head down to my knees. Initially my oncologist said this is not a listed side affect. My provincial health provider does not cover Zometa.

[Cowgirl1951]

This doesn't answer your question about pamidronate. I have been receiving Zometa every 3 months since 2013. For approximately a week afterwards I am very fatigue. I feel like I have the flu but no aching. I have tried taking Claritin and Tyenol but still have the fatigue.

[Hazelgreen]

Hello & Welcome Cannuck,

I was surprised to read in your post that your province doesn't support Zometa.

I live in Saskatchewan, and my oncologist keeps asking me whether I've changed my mind about Zometa. I have always declined it because I don't like the idea of risking osteonecrosis of the jaw, and my sclerotic bones appear to have good density so I see no real reason for it.

There are several other Canadians on this forum so I hope someone else is from your province and can answer your question. However, I believe Albertans are also prescribed Zometa so that leaves the other provinces only.

Warm wishes,

Cindy

[Cannuck in reply to Hazelgreen]

I live in Alberta but Alberta Blue Cross will not cover.

[Hazelgreen]

There is at least one person on this forum from Alberta taking Zometa. You might try a private message to her (girlsptz). She is one of the most prolific contributors, but may be taking a break from contributing. Otherwise, I'm sure she would comment.

I assume that you have metastatic breast cancer, and should be attending a cancer center. Your private insurance carrier does not have a say over what the provincial health agencies provide.

Best wishes,

Cindy

[Cannuck in reply to Hazelgreen]

I am getting my Ibrance and Letrozole from the cancer centre, but the Zometa would come from a regular pharmacy and I only have Alberta blue cross coverage for those prescriptions. They don’t cover Zometa.

[Hazelgreen in reply to Cannuck]

Alberta's system must be very different from Saskatchewan's. Here, all cancer meds are covered by the cancer center no matter where you are in the province. I hope you hear from Sandra (girlsptz) but you could try a private message to her.Cheers,

Cindy

[Hazelgreen]

Thanks so much for your responses, Sandra! I thought you'd be the person best to advise her!

I hope you are feeling well. Our temperature is dropping to -30 tomorrow so I guess we still have a few weeks of winter to go before its cycling weather.

Warm wishes,

Cindy