Osteoporosis and Osteopenia treatment and prostate cancer?

Posted by scottbeammeup @scottbeammeup, Mar 21 9:33am

I am not recovering from Orgovyx as quickly as expected and my post treatment DEXA scan shows osteopenia and osteoporosis that was not present pre-treatment. My doctor is recommending an infusion of Reclast (Zoledronic acid) that he says will last for a year.

I am very concerned, though, about the listed side effects: esophageal cancer, jaw necrosis and atypical fractures. I'm also leery because it seems every drug causes new problems that require yet another drug which causes further problems, etc.

I don't want to be in yet another situation where the cure turns out to be worse than the disease which is what seems to have happened with Orgovyx.

Has anyone taken this medication or known anyone who has? Has anyone had any of these major side effects? Were they treatable? Do you think this drug was worth it for you?

Thanks

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scottbeammeup | @scottbeammeup | Mar 21 11:28am

Thanks. I guess they have to list the rare side effects for legal reasons. I called my doctor and he said he's never seen a case of esophageal cancer or jaw necrosis from anyone who took this drug, but that it will probably give me a fever for 2-3 days that will resolve. They do have a daily pill form but the once a year infusion seems easier.

jeff Marchi | @jeffmarc | Mar 21 10:29am

I have been getting 3 month Zometa infusions for the last nine months. My oncologist preferred this over Xgeva because it has a lower chance of causing those Issues with jaw necrosis. Xgeva is rated a little more effective than Zometa, but it has higher risk. I will be getting it for 2 years.

I was on Fosamax for about five years, It also is for strengthening your bones. You’re only supposed to be on that drug for so long. That’s why I switched over to Zometa.. Easier to deal with infusions than the fosamax weekly fasting requirement.

I know a lot of other people that have been on Zometa and Xgeva, Haven’t heard a single case where it’s actually caused problems.