Side Effects of Pamidronate

Some of the most common side effects of pamidronate that were seen in clinical studies include vomiting, anemia, and fatigue. There are also a number of pamidronate side effects that, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately, such as high blood pressure, an irregular heart rhythm, decreased urination, or jaw and tooth problems.

 

Pamidronate Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with pamidronate disodium (Aredia®); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with pamidronate. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of pamidronate side effects with you.)
 

Serious Side Effects Seen With Pamidronate

Some side effects with pamidronate, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Low blood levels of calcium (hypocalcemia), phosphate (hypophosphatemia), and magnesium (hypomagnesemia)
  • Decreased urination (which may be a sign of kidney damage)
  • Severe bone, muscle, or joint pain
  • Jaw or tooth problems
  • Fast heart rate (tachycardia)
  • High blood pressure
  • An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • Bleeding in the digestive tract, often seen as blood in the stool
  • Psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
 
(Side Effects of Pamidronate Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;