Role Of The
Rheumatologist
Disease Definitions
Doctor's Biography
Preparing For
Doctor's Appointment
HIPAA Information
Please Share Your Comments On Our Website.
Click Here
Click Here To Search
... |
The Science of Pamidronate
Previous Page
Pamidronate(or Aredia manufactured by pharmaceutical company Novartis)
is a third generation product and is in the family of drugs known as
Bisphosphonates. It is used in the treatment of Hypercalcaemia or
malignancy, Pagets disease and Osteoprosis.
"Osteoporosis occurs when the inner core of bone becomes porous and
weak. Unlike hard outer bone, this spongy inside layer is a depository
for calcium for various bodily requirements. This core is constantly
being renewed or ‘remodeled’ - as the stored calcium gets used, fresh
calcium derived from the diet replaces it. Remodeling is much more
efficient in younger years, and bone density reaches its peak in the
early 20s. From then on, more of the calcium rich core is used than is
replaced. If there aren’t adequate stores to begin with, the supply
can become critically depleted in later years, leaving bones brittle,
deformed, and prone to fracture." (1).
"The mechanism of action is as follows. Under normal conditions the
bone tissue is constantly being broken down and at the same time
rebuilt by a process which involves specialized cells in the body.
This re-modeling process ensures that a good quality of bone is
maintained throughout life. In some situations, however, there may be
an imbalance between the cells which break down the bone (the
osteoclasts) and those that stimulate the manufacture of new bone (the
osteoblasts). When the osteoclasts are relatively more active then
reduced bone density and osteoporosis can occur. The Bisphosphonates
are able to restore the balance by blocking osteoclasts thereby
leading to a reduction in the bone wasting process.
Disodium Pamidronate is administered under medical supervision. An
intravenous infusion is prepared which must be administered into a
large vein (usually in the forearm) over a specified period of time.
It must be given over not less than 30 minutes or take as long as 90
minutes. The actual dose (and frequency with which it is given) varies
according to the specific cause of the high calcium state. It is
important not to give too much which can result in an inappropriately
low blood calcium (Hypercalcaemia). The amount of fluid which is given
in each infusion varies from no less than 100 ml (about a small cup
full) to 250 ml (about half a pint) for a dose of 60 mg. The
concentration which is given and the time over which it is given are
important in order to limit or avoid drug side effects .
Disodium Pamidronate is somewhat of an irritant and during infusion
may be associated with skin flushing, flu-like symptoms, muscle and
joint aches and pains, nausea and vomiting, abdominal discomfort and
diarrhea (or constipation) but mainly when given in higher
concentrations or at faster rates than those recommended.
Occasionally people complain of confusion, dizziness, lethargy and
sleep disturbances following its administration.
Liver and kidney problems are rarely associated with treatment but can
be easily checked by a simple blood test. The main problem occurs if
it is given to someone who already has a disease affecting their
kidneys or liver.
Other uncommon side effects include eye symptoms (redness, visual
disturbances), a reduction in the bloods clotting ability and salt and
water imbalance. Other medicines or substances which might interfere
with your treatment, there are none of any note."(2).
There are many good articles inclusive of various studies which
explain the successes with the use of this medication. Simply
searching under Osteoporosis, or pamidronate will lead you to
additional information. As with all information, be careful of the
source and should you have any questions it's always a good idea to
consult your physician or contact our office for help.
Disclaimer: no liability whatsoever is accepted for information
given and all such information, especially with regard to drug usage
must be checked with a person's health care provider.
(1) Delmas, Pierre D., M.D., Phd.,"Bisphosphonates in the Treatment of
Bone Disease",Treatment: Effects of Pamidronate New Findings on
Effects of Bisphosphonates.The New England Journal of Medicine, Vol.
335, p1836, December 12, 1996. Accessed July 25, 2003.
(1.2) Colorado Health Site, "Osteoporosis Prevention and
Treatment:Effects of Pamidronate". New Findings on Effects of
Bisphosphonates on Bone Disease. Citations From National Library of
Medicine's Medline/PubMed database. www.coloradohealthsite.org/osteo/osteo_pamidronate.html.
Accessed July 25, 2003
(2) "Pamidronate: About Your Medicine Disodium Pamidronate"Tayside
University Hospitals NHS Trust, www.dundee, ac.uk/medicine/tayendoweb/images/pamidronate.htm,
2000 version 1, accessed July 25, 2003.
(2.2) "The Bisphosphonates:drdoc on-line". www.arthritis.co.za/fosamax.html.
Accessed July 25, 2003 |
|
