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Tomoxifen/Zometa Cancer Treatment

Women who are high risk for breast cancer and osteoporosis often take tamoxifen and Zometa (zoledronic acid) to minimize their risks while they undergo standard hormone replacement therapy, which has been found to increase the risk for these conditions.

  1. How Tamoxifen Works

    • Tamoxifen blocks estrogen from reaching receptors in the breast. Excess estrogen can contribute to tumor growth.

    Drawbacks

    • Tamoxifen may increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, uterine cancer and cataracts, according to Cancer.gov. The most common side effects, however, are hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. The lower estrogen levels put you at risk for osteoporosis.

    How Zometa Works

    • Zoledronic acid has been proven to prevent the breakdown of bone in the body. A study by the Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group in 2006 showed that zoledronic acid had good results keeping bone density in patients on tamoxifen estrogen blocker.

    Drawbacks

    • Since Zometa keeps bones from breaking down, calcium levels being transported in the blood are lower. According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, July 4, 2009, this can put patients at greater risk for osteonecrosis (bone death) of the jaw. Bone tissue from dental procedures and surgery may not get replaced.

    Considerations

    • Discuss with your doctor whether the benefits outweigh the risks for you when taking any medication.

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