Q: What is Aredia?
A: Aredia (pamidronate) is used to treat hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood) that may occur with some types of cancer. It is also used to treat Paget's disease, a medical condition in which the body replaces healthy bones with weak bones, as well as to treat bone metastasis (spread of cancer).

Aredia is an intravenous bisphosphonate drug made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1994.

Q: Has there been any recent news about Aredia?
A: In September 2004, Novartis Pharmaceuticals and the FDA notified dental healthcare professionals of revisions to prescribing information to describe the occurrence of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ) observed in cancer patients receiving treatment with intravenous bisphosphonates (such as Aredia). The revised prescribing information recommends that cancer patients receive a dental examination prior to starting bisphosphonate treatment, and that they avoid invasive dental procedures while on these medications.

Q: What is Osteonecrosis of the Jaw?
A: Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ), or 'jaw death,' is a medical condition in which the jawbone partially crumbles and dies. ONJ may cause severe pain, loose teeth, exposed bone, loss of function, and disfigurement.

Q: Are there any special instructions for taking Aredia?
A: Because Aredia is administered intravenously, it should only be administered by or under the supervision of your doctor or healthcare professional. Make sure to combine your treatment with regular visits to your healthcare professional, and to follow your healthcare professional's orders regarding Aredia dosing. For patients using Aredia to treat hypercalcemia, your healthcare professional may recommend following a low-calcium diet.