fosamax vs zometa

[dberg]

I have the opportunity to go from once weekly fosamax to zometa every 6 months. I'm not very compliant with the fosamax and my onc has said this is an option. Has anyone made this switch? I've read a little about the zometa and reducing the chances of bone mets, but wonder about the negative effects. I spoke to my dentist about the jaw necrosis and he said it wasn't an issue in my case. It is just such a jump and I'm feeling a little uneasy. Can anyone shed some light here?

[ElaineM]

There is a lab test to see if a person would be prone to osteonecrosis, but I don't remember the name of the test. You might also want to consider talking with your dentist or ask your dentist to talk with your oncologist
about your dental health. A full dental checkup, a cleaning and fixing anything that needs fixing might be a good idea before starting zometa.

[harrie]

The risk of osteonecrosis is slightly higher with zometa then with fosomax. But the risk is still low for zometa. If you would like an opinion on this, you might consider consulting an oral surgeon.