Zometa amounts and time frame?

geewhiz

Hi guys! I went to get my herceptin infusion today and the nurse pulled me aside. Last time I got my first infusion of zometa -4mg (?). My doctor did not indicate the frequency with which I would receive it. This nurse told me to research the issue thoroughly and then tell the doctor how much and when I wanted. She explained it is so new to do for recurrence that my doctor doesnt seem to know. Geez.

So what seems to be the prevailing thought on zometa?

everyminute

I am getting it every 6 months based on early studies but we are keeping an eye on it.

OneBadBoob

I too am getting 4 mg. every six months, for seven treatments.

That is what my onc feels is best according to the research.

Thankfully, I have three behind me so almost half done!

Octobergirl

My onc recommended 4mg at 6 month intervals.  At my second infusion, I talked with him about increasing the frequency to every 3 mths. at least during the first two yrs. when recurrance is most likely or until more research is available. Since I am stage 3, he agreed but said insurance may not authorize 3 mth. intervals.  Surprisingly, my insurance co. did approve 3 mths. and I had an infusion last week.  I believe Zometa and Femara are my best tools against metastises and I want all the help I can get...especially in this first 2 yrs. post treatment. 

Flamin_nora

what a coincidence---I had my second treatment just today!  Like most of you, I am receiving 4mg every 6 months.  Strange thing though, when I first approached my onc about receiving this treatment, he was quite reticent, but finally admitted that it was probably a good idea for me

I recently had a f/u appointment with him and when I reminded him that I was due for my second Zometa treatment, he was over the moon happy that I was having it (and he doesn't get excited about anything).....so am wondering if there are any very recent studies that I don't know about??? 

also, anyone else receiving the treatment on a 3 month basis?  Are there any studies on this?  Am wondering if I shouldn't ask my onc about it, now that he is in such a good mood 

KerryMac

I'm getting 4mg every 6 months for 3 years too.

I think they are just guessing at this point....

LindaLou53

I started taking Zometa in 2006 at 3 month intervals because there was no established dosing schedule at that time for it's use as a preventative of mets.  After 18 months we switched to 6 month intervals.  After 3 years and my 9th dose we decided to go to an annual dose for 2 years.  I had my 10th dose last week and next July will be my final dose unless new research data shows a benefit to continuing it any longer.  While my onc was a very early believer in the benefit of Zometa, she wants to balance out the potential risk of ONJ and bone healing issues that may result from longtime use of the drug. I am very happy to have been given this treatment.

clariceak

4 mg every 6 months.

LindaLou- that's awesome that your onc was ahead of the curve.  My onc was somewhat dismissive of Zometa when I brought it up last October, but was supportive at my last visit in May.

geewhiz

Thanks guys for the input. I think you are right, they are just guessing so far. But WOW that the one onc was on it a few years back. That is wonderful!

I wouldnt mind upping it to every 3 months if that might help? I had absolutely zero side effects.