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Home > Drug Category > Osteoporosis Medications > Aredia and Equivalent

Aredia Information

Aredia (Pamidronate Disodium) Injection is used to treat high calcium levels in the blood due to cancer (tumour induced hypercalcemia); bone tumours resulting from the spread of tumours at other sites and multiple myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells); Paget’s disease of bone in patients with symptoms such as abnormal and weak bones, bone pain, itching. Aredia is also used to treat bone damage caused by certain types of cancer such as breast cancer or bone marrow cancer. This medicine does not treat the cancer itself. Pamidronate Disodium for Injection is a bisphosphonate which strongly binds to the bone and slows down the rate of bone change. This helps to reduce the amount of calcium in the blood, thereby reducing bone loss and the risk of bone fractures. Aredia is only recommended for use in adult patients. Aredia is available as a solution in 10 ml injection vial in dosage 3 mg/ml, 6 mg/ml, and 9 mg/ml.

Aredia Side Effects

The most common side effects of Aredia may include short-lasting fever and flu-like conditions with chills, sometimes together with a feeling of tiredness and general discomfort; low calcium and phosphate levels; headache; bone pain; increased blood pressure; nausea, vomiting; or pain, redness, swelling or a hard lump under your skin around the IV needle. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects such as:
• A high fever;
• A seizure;
• Irregular heart rhythm;
• Kidney problems;
• Low blood platelets which, if severe, may cause spontaneous bleeding and bruising;
• Low white blood cells which, if severe, may cause fever, infections of the throat, ears, skin, or lungs (pneumonia);
• New or unusual pain in your thigh or hip;
• Tingling or numbness and muscle spasms and twitching, leg cramps, constipation, symptoms of low level of calcium and potassium.

Aredia Precautions

Do not use Aredia if you are allergic to Pamidronate Disodium or if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a heart problem; an electrolyte imbalance (low potassium or magnesium levels); kidney or liver disease, calcium or Vitamin D deficiency; eye or ear problems; mouth sores; or a dental problem. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Aredia and other medications. Ensure sufficient intake of liquids prior to infusions to prevent dehydration. Aredia should not be given during pregnancy or to mothers who are breast feeding. You must use highly effective contraception during treatment. Do not drive or use machinery or perform other tasks that need full attention as Aredia may cause some patients to become sleepy or dizzy, especially immediately after the infusion. In rare cases, this medicine may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw. Symptoms include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work.

Do I need a prescription to order Aredia?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Aredia.