Joy,
I refused Zometa in 2019. If I had taken it, my bones would be more brittle now than normal. Instead of Zometa, I chose 1200-2400 mg Calcium, Magnesium, D3, K2 and Vitamin C to keep my bones strong. I prefer MRM Bone Maximizer IIi. I also avoid salty foods, caffeine, and carbonation which take calcium out of the bones. My fingernails grow very quickly now.
Paula🌹

For information only

Many people with multiple myeloma do receive Zometa, but yes — some choose not to, and others are advised not to. It’s not uncommon.

Zometa (zoledronic acid) is a type of bisphosphonate used to:Strengthen bonesReduce fracturesLower bone pain
Decrease risk of skeletal-related events

Bone protection is important in multiple myeloma because the disease weakens bone structure.

Why Some People Decline or Delay Zometa
Dental Concerns (Big One)

Zometa can rarely cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
Patients who:Need dental extractions
Have poor dental healthHave upcoming oral surgerymay delay or decline treatment.
Doctors usually recommend a dental exam before starting.

Kidney Function Issues
Zometa is processed through the kidneys.
If someone has:Reduced kidney functionAcute kidney injury
Rising creatinine

their doctor may adjust the dose or avoid it.

Side Effects
Some people experience:
Flu-like symptoms after infusion
Bone/joint painFatigue

Low Bone Disease Burden

Occasionally, if:
There are no lytic lesions
Bone density is stable
Disease is very early

I didn’t have Zometa but had Xgeva instead. My MM broke both my arms. One arm has a steel plate with cement and screws. 2 months later my other arm broke and have a rod with screws. My dr’s monitored my Xgeva and took me off after a year. I had no jaw or dental issues.

I wish I never received it, but I went along with the program until the dental persona non grata issues. From that point going forward, never again! I too take my calcium with oyster shell, plus I have two glasses of whole organic milk every day.

The Zometa was given to me as part of the precursor to the sct. I had another dose on 10/24. I then developed a tooth issue, it took me five oral surgeons to finally find one willing to do an apioectomy. It was because of the Zometa that many dental professionals have innate trepidation when dealing with cancer patients who have received Z infusions. The one I had on 10/24 was the last one. Unfortunately, Z stays in your system for quite some time and finding an oral surgeon, periodontist or endodontist can be nightmarish to say the least.
Shout out to Dr. Robert Novo in Staten Island who after consulting with another specialist on what method to undertake to fix my issue, did a great job with zero complications.