This information is offered as a guide to you and your family providing information on this treatment. Your treatment will be fully explained by your doctor or nurse who will be happy to answer any questions.

What is a pamidronate infusion?

This is a non-hormonal drug that works by slowing down the cells which break down bone. This helps the bone building cells to work more effectively and increase density.

Who benefits from pamidronate?

People who have osteoporosis and Paget’s disease can benefit from this treatment.

How is it given?

• Pamidronate is given directly into the bloodstream via a small plastic tube into the hand or arm (an infusion). The infusion is given over a one hour period.
• At the beginning, middle and end of each infusion the nurse will monitor your blood pressure, temperature and pulse as pamidronate can increase your blood pressure.

How often is it given?

• If you have Paget’s disease you will have three infusions at two weekly intervals.
• If you have Osteoporosis your infusions will be once every three months.

What are the side-effects?

• Some patients do suffer from mild ‘flu like’ symptoms with aching and pain in their muscles and joints.
• You may also feel tired for a day or two after the infusion, this will get better without the need for any other treatment.

Do you need any follow up or aftercare?

You will not require any aftercare following each infusion.

• If your treatment is for Paget’s, following the three infusions you will be reviewed by your Rheumatology consultant in the musculoskeletal outpatients department.
• If your treatment is for osteoporosis you will usually require a follow-up bone density scan at 2-3 years and review by your Rheumatology consultant in the musculoskeletal outpatients department.

Contact:

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment please contact:
Michelle Rutherford (Staff Nurse Ward 19 Day Unit; Monday to Friday 8.30amto 4.30pm): (0191) 2336161 Ext 27752
Or your consultant’s secretary via the main hospital switchboard on 0191 233 6161

Further Information

For further information on Osteoporosis visit www.nos.org.uk
For further information on Pagets visit www.paget.org