Hello there
I just need to ask a couple of questions if it’s ok.
How common is necrosis of the jaw and how effective are biophosphates.
Also with extreme joint pain, how much of a break can you take with endocrine therapy, safely.
Thank you
Hi uptownmonk,
Thanks for posting.
Bisphosphonate drugs can be used to help prevent or slow down bone thinning (osteoporosis). They can also help to treat some types of cancer that cause bone damage. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a rare side effect of bisphosphonates.
You do not mention the reasons for having bisphosphonates, however, when used for as treatment for primary breast cancer, bisphosphonates may also be used to reduce the risk of breast cancer spreading to the bones and other parts of the body. Your specialist is the best person to discuss the benefits and effectiveness, and the risks of bisphosphonate treatment in your individual situation.
It sounds like you are having a particularly difficult time with joint pain. Joint pain can be a side effect of endocrine therapy. If your treatment team thinks your pain is a side effect of treatment, they may suggest a short break from treatment to see if your symptoms improve. It is always important to speak to your treatment team before stopping any treatment. The time of the treatment break suggested can vary depending on someone’s situation.
Some people find changing the brand of type of hormone therapy can help with certain side effects, including joint pain. You may find our information on managing joint pain of helpful and this blog with 5 commonly asked questions about hormone therapy and joint pain might be of interest.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. Please complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.
Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday.
We will be closed on Monday 26 May for the bank holiday.
We will also be closed on Wednesday 18 June for our staff conference.
Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
We’re currently evaluating this service. If you’d like to provide feedback, please click the link to complete the survey . It should take approximately 10 minutes.
Best wishes
Teresa
Breast Care Nurse
Please read the disclaimer Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy
As we are unable to monitor for further replies, this thread will now be closed. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread, call our helpline, email us or request a call back.