Pamidronate is a medication used to manage high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia) that occur as a result of such diseases as Paget's disease and cancer. It can also treat bone destruction, says Drugs.com. Pamidronate is a bisphosphonate medication that prevents bone deterioration and increases bone density. The National Library of Medicine indicates that pamidronate is available as an intravenous (through the vein) infusion which takes place over a time period of two to 24 hours.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, pamidronate's common side effects include heartburn, poor appetite, cough and headache. Pamidronate can also cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, increased sweating (hyperhydrosis), diarrhea and constipation. Vomiting and diarrhea can increase your risk of dehydration and low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia). Dry skin, infrequent urination and dry lips characterize dehydration. Fatigue and muscular cramping characterize hypokalemia. Drink seven to 10 cups of water a day to rehydrate your body. Incorporate apricots, raisins, bananas and other potassium-abundant fruits or vegetables into your diet to elevate your potassium levels.
Pamidronate can also cause runny nose, numbness or tingling (paresthesias), fatigue, back or joint pain, and pain, redness or swelling at the intravenous injection site. Tell your physician when pamidronate's symptoms last for longer than one week.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine says that pamidronate can lead to deterioration in kidney (renal) function and, eventually, kidney failure. Your doctor can check your blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. BUN is produced in your liver and is typically filtered out of the body via the kidneys. However, BUN remains elevated in your blood when you suffer from kidney failure and kidney deterioration. Signs of these conditions include infrequent urination, fatigue, weakness and swelling (edema) of your extremities.
Drugs.com indicates that pamidronate can cause osteonecrosis of the jaw, a condition characterized by jaw pain, loose teeth, gum infections, jaw swelling and jaw numbness. The medication can also cause seizures, fainting, eye pain and photosensitivity. Seizures are potentially life-threatening when the occur for longer than 30 minutes. This medical condition is now called status epilepticus, and can lead to brain damage and even death. Photosensitivity means that your skin is very sensitive to sunlight, making you susceptible to sunburn and skin blisters. Tell your doctor right away when pamidronate causes these effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid pamidronate if you are allergic to it or bisphosphonates in general. An allergic reaction to pamidronate includes trouble breathing, hives, and swelling of you face, tongue and lips. The National Library of Medicine warns that you should not use pamidronate when you are pregnant as it can cause harm to your baby. Drugs.com says to tell your physician if you have kidney disease or a history of thyroid surgery. Pamidronate can worsen these conditions.
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