breast cancer

BREAST REGARDS MICHELLE

lifestyle

Zometa Infusions and Bone Health After Breast Cancer

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Date:
February 5, 2024

Author:
Michelle Kang

filed in:
Survivorship

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To Whom It May Concern:

I finally completed 6 of 6 Zometa infusions!

Below is a summary of my personal experience for anyone else who may be starting Zometa:

Background
Endocrine therapy can potentially weaken bones, and it did for me. My bone scans also showed that I had osteopenia BEFORE starting endocrine therapy.

Prolia to Zometa
I switched due to my steadily decreasing bone density levels and because Zometa can reduce the risk of breast cancer spreading to the bones.

Frequency
2-hour infusions every 6 months

Side Effects
I experienced extreme fatigue the night of and the day after my infusions. The fatigue was most severe after my first infusion and lessened after each subsequent infusion. No pain and no other side effects!

Prep
The week of my infusions, I made sure to get a lot of sleep/rest, avoid high intensity workouts, and drink lots of water.

Dental Clearance
I had to get clearance from my dentist prior to my first infusion.

Scheduling Tip
Try to schedule your first infusion on a Friday, so you can test your symptoms and rest over the weekend.

PTSD
I experienced PTSD sitting in the infusion chair, so I had to hype myself up (a lot) and remind myself why I’m doing endocrine therapy & zometa infusions — for my health, loved ones, and future.

Next Steps
I’ll continue to do routine bone density scans. If my levels steadily decrease again, my care team will consider the resumption of Prolia or Zometa. I’ll also continue weight training and staying on top of my calcium supplements.

Reminder
Adding on yet another treatment can feel so shitty, but the tradeoff is worth it. Please remember — you are not alone!

Breast regards,

Michelle