Bisphosphonates help control prostateThe prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bla... Full Definition cancerCancer is a group of diseases where cells grow abnormally an... Full Definition that has spread to the bone. Prostate cancer spreads to bone more commonly than any other location. This medication helps stop the loss of bone mass that happens in metastatic cancer and with use of hormone therapy.
Who is this treatment best for?
Men with bone metastases or those on hormone therapy with osteoporosis.
What to Expect
Bisphosphonates slow down the growth of bone cells called osteoclasts. These cells often become overactive when prostate cancer metastasizes to the bone. Zoledronic acid is a commonly used medication. It is delivered by injection every three months for treatment of bone metastases. It is injected once a year to prevent bone loss in patients on hormone therapy.
Who orders or performs the treatment?
What are common side effects?
Very rare, but osteonecrosis of the jaw may occur. This condition causes blood loss and decay in the jaw and may be caught early by regular dental checkups while on the drug. Low calcium. Other side effects can occur.