Key points
- Bone-strengthening therapies are used to treat bone metastases and strengthen existing bone.
- These therapies can occasionally result in osteonecrosis.
- Bone health should be monitored during treatment with endocrine therapy.
Content:
Bone-strengthening drugs are used to treat bone metastases by reducing the damage caused by the cancer, strengthening existing bone, and preventing hypercalcaemia.
Bisphosponates slow bone breakdown while allowing new bone to form. They are administered via IV infusion. Goserelin is the most commonly used therapy, and is given every three to four weeks. It is publicly funded in New Zealand.
Denosumab (Xgeva) is a targeted therapy that reduces bone breakdown and bone loss, which also reduces the risk of complications (i.e. fractures). It is administered via subcutaneous injection every four weeks. It is not funded in New Zealand.
These drugs may be administered in the primary care setting.
Monitoring bone health during treatment
Bone-strengthening therapies can occasionally cause osteonecrosis. Patients should have a dental-check up before starting these drugs.
It is also recommended that patients undergo bone density mineral monitoring to supervise bone health.
