Zometa part II (zoledronic acid)

I've now had my second dose of Zometa. I'm happy to report that the drug seems to work just like they said. While I had extreme fatigue with the first dose, I didn't have the same symptoms this time. According to the manufacturer's information, it usually only causes heavy fatigue in the first dose.

My doctor has me on it once every three months. I queried him on this as my "warrior" individual says I should have it monthly to fight it more! It also seemed like most of the information I found on it was that it was given monthly. In fact, I received my first dose when my doctor was on vacation. The nurses automatically put me done for a monthly shot, but I told them I was fairly sure that he wanted me to have it only once every three months.

When I was able to discuss this with him, he told me that he doesn't usually prescribe this for monthly unless I have extreme pain or in cases of multiple myeloma. He said that current studies indicate that having it more frequently doesn't ensure a more favorable result, and it does carry greater risk of negative side effects such as kidney failure and Osteonecrosis of the jaw. Frankly, I'd rather not have these side effects.

It's difficult to explain what Zometa is to my family and friends. Since it is given in 15 minute IV drips, everyone assumes that it is chemotherapy. It isn't. It is a bisphosphonate, and is the same compound as Reclast, for those who may be familiar with that from all the direct advertising.

They don't know quite how it works, but it does work well for some patients. I just hope I'm one of them.