I will add my experience to discussion.
When first diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer in 2018, they did a bone density test, I was diagnosed with osteopenia.
I had lumpectomy, radiation and chemo, then AIs. While on AIs I had Zometa every 6 months. I did feel little sick after Zometa. Sort of like a mild flu the next day. I just made sure I did not plan anything on days after infusions.
Due to side effects of AI, I stopped last year. The oncologist order another bone density test and no change from one in 2018, good news. Was it because of Zometa, maybe. No way to know for sure. I do take a calcium and D3 supplement daily. But I did that prior to breast cancer,
Had discussion with oncologist about need for Zometa if not taking AIs, he told me it had minor benefit but my chance of reoccurrence of breast cancer after radiation and chemo is low. I told him I will think about.
My oncologist finished his fellowship and is no longer at Mayo Rochester and I forgot to ask my new oncologist about. I have my yearly imaging tests in few months and will ask then about pros and cons of continuing Zometa.
Laurie
@laurie: thank you for the very specific information regarding AI, and Zometa. Each individual post, with different individual results/causes for taking Zometa, gives me/us a better idea of what this medication can or cannot do, how it impacts you, and so on. Clinical trials and general treatment protocols only go so far.... the people undertaking the treatment are the ones who deal with the side effects/effectiveness.