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Becky · 11-14-2006, 07:56 PM

Dear Liz

If you are ER+/PR+ and on an aromatase inhibitor, there are several new studies (and more info coming out at the San Antonio conference) that if you are taking an AI, you need to take a bone strengthener. If you are ok with your bone density now, you probably won't be after being on an AI for five years. If you are on the edge now (as I am), you could definitely be in trouble after 5 years. While getting chemo and herceptin (since I was already getting IV treatments), my onc gave me Zometa every 6 months as a bone strengthener. (I am Stage 2A so no bone mets). Since I am done with Herceptin now, in May (2007) I have to start Fosamax or Boniva as it will be 12 months (recommendation is a Zometa treatment every 6-12 months for osteopenia or osteoporesis). So... not to worry, it is being done as a preventative measure I am sure. For the record, there is a trial testing Zometa vs nothing as a bone mets preventer. Zometa is given every 6 months for 5 yrs to see if it prevents bone mets in early bc.

Hope this helps

Becky

PS - my first bone density showed slight osteopenia in my spine. My neck and hips readings were good.

11-14-2006, 07:56 PM	#2
Becky Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Stockton, NJ Posts: 4,179	Dear Liz If you are ER+/PR+ and on an aromatase inhibitor, there are several new studies (and more info coming out at the San Antonio conference) that if you are taking an AI, you need to take a bone strengthener. If you are ok with your bone density now, you probably won't be after being on an AI for five years. If you are on the edge now (as I am), you could definitely be in trouble after 5 years. While getting chemo and herceptin (since I was already getting IV treatments), my onc gave me Zometa every 6 months as a bone strengthener. (I am Stage 2A so no bone mets). Since I am done with Herceptin now, in May (2007) I have to start Fosamax or Boniva as it will be 12 months (recommendation is a Zometa treatment every 6-12 months for osteopenia or osteoporesis). So... not to worry, it is being done as a preventative measure I am sure. For the record, there is a trial testing Zometa vs nothing as a bone mets preventer. Zometa is given every 6 months for 5 yrs to see if it prevents bone mets in early bc. Hope this helps Becky PS - my first bone density showed slight osteopenia in my spine. My neck and hips readings were good.