I said I would write this thread after my recent visit to my onc as I had been told I would be given a supplementary drug along with arimidex to ease joint pain often caused by this drug.
Well I have been prescribed Bonefos(sodium clodronate) but the onc said this was more to protect the bones from oesteporosus and bone mets (secondaries), rather than stopping joint pain so not sure if that is much help to you all.
One thing I have noticed already though is I have felt wiped out after only 2 days doses, keep falling asleep, this is a side affect, but I have had a busy few days/wks so maybe I am just catching up on much needed sleep?
Irene
Hello Irene
I am also taking Arimidex and Bonefos. I don’t normally post in here as I am one of the secondary ladies so I hope you don’t mind the intrusion. I doubt that that the tiredness is due to the medication after only two days but you do have to make sure that you drink plenty of water (I try to drink 2 litres each day) and sit up for at least an hour after taking the bonefos. I do have the occasional upset tummy but nothing major. Your GP is right about the bones being protected against bone mets. this drug has been found to stop the spread of BC to the bones by 50% but probably because of the cost (each tablet costs £10) some GP’s will be reluctant to prescribe it. I was first dx in 1993 and had 13 years in remission before it came back last year in my bones. My oncologist has advised me to take two tablets each night so that they have a chance to work on an empty stomach
good luck and I hope that after a long rest you will be feeling better
barbara
Hi Barbara
Thankyou so much for your advice. My God why are they so expensive? Thats £140 per wk, £560 per month, £6720 per yr, £33,600 for 5 yrs!
Well I shouldn’t complain that the NHS wont scan me because of costs! I must say bone mets is one of my big worries, and I am so sorry you have these. I also have a friend with them. It has really helped to put my mind at rest that I will be getting a 50% better chance than not taking any.
I take mine split in morn and eve at present coz thats what it suggested on the drug info sheet, always on an empty stomach. May try 2 together as I have forgotten the evening 1 twice in just 2 wks.
Thanks again
Irene