What Is Bisphosphonate Myeloma Therapy?
Although bisphosphonates such as Aredia are used in myeloma therapy, they are not a type of chemotherapy. This class of medication is aimed at improving the health of the bones. Bisphosphonates work by reducing damage to the bones and allowing bones to strengthen and heal. Recently published guidelines by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend that all patients with myeloma bone disease include bisphosphonate therapy. The International Myeloma Foundation cites the following benefits: • Prevention of further bone damage • Reduction of bone pain • Better control of hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood from bone breakdown) • Reduced need for radiation therapy • Fewer pathological fractures (breaks that occur where the bone has become too weak) • Improved quality of life by easing pain and allowing you to return to your normal routine faster • Improved bone strength and healing The Side Effects of Bisphosphonate Myeloma Therapy Compared to other myeloma therapy,
