Experience with Zometa infusion?

Posted by catbuddy @catbuddy, Apr 20 3:30pm

My husband just had a 3rd (monthly) infusion of Zometa. I understand it takes full effect after 4 infusions, and the doc is talking about continuing after that. Hubby is 74, was diagnosed in August 2023 (Gleason 3+3, PSA 22). We learned in November that PC spread to L5 spine, plus small amounts on skull and right hip. Began Orgovix and Erleada in November, PSA now 0.07. Another question is regarding radiation: One doc recommends use of 2mm Cyberknife for the L5 and the prostate. A second opinion doc says postpone radiation until significant rise in PSA. My husband is also contemplating Proton Radiation instead of Cyberknife. We’d appreciate any thoughts or experiences on these issues. He’s tolerating the hormone therapies and the Zomeda pretty well so far. It’s been so helpful to read the posts and we are grateful for everyone’s willingness to share their experiences. Best luck to all of us!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Prostate Cancer Support Group.

wooldridgec | @wooldridgec | Apr 20 5:09pm

I have been on Zometa infusions monthly for almost 2 years now. I have stage 4 metastatic Prostate Cancer (PC) in the bone only (spine, ribs, one hips and femurs). Zometa push calcium back into your bones to strengthen them and prevent bone future fractures. Everyone reacts differently to medication. My symptoms after infusion sometimes are bone and muscle soreness (not pain). I am due for my second Dexascan and if all is good (no additional thinning) my infusions will be spread out quarterly. There are some studies that Zometa prevents future metastases - but my Oncologist said that there is no real evidence that Zometa actually does that. It is for bone support. Sounds like your husband is Oligometastic. Radiation is difficult and everyone has to make their own decisions - for myself I choose to carpet bomb the cancer up front. I did not want to give it any chance to come back stronger.

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Apr 28 11:52am

Hi @catbuddy, in addition to the helpful post from @wooldridgec, I'm tagging fellow members like @foamhand @kjbushur @heal623 @healer74 @baxterlee77 who have experience with Zometa (zoledronic acid) and can share as well.

With respect to your radiation questions, you might check out these related discussions:
- Is SBRT with proton beam now a gold standard for prostate cancer?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/sbrt-with-proton-beam/
- Can Proton Beam Therapy be used when prostate cancer has spread?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/proton-beam-therapy/
More proton beam discussions: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/prostate-cancer/?search=Proton%20beam&index=discussions

- Anyone have stereotactic body radiation therapy (CyberKnife)?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/cyberknife-procedure/
- Proton Therapy or Cyberknife without ADT for Gleason 8?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/proton-therapy-or-cyberknife-without-adt-for-gleason-8/