If a blood test reveals that you have Paget’s disease, but you are not experiencing any symptoms, it is likely that a policy of ‘watchful waiting’ will be recommended. This means that you will not receive immediate treatment, but the progress of the condition will be monitored using regular blood tests.
Bisphosphonates
If you are experiencing symptoms, you will be treated with a type of medication known as bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates work by suppressing the actions of the osteoclasts cells, which mean that the bone remodelling process should return to normal.
Bisphosphonates are usually taken in tablet form (oral bisphosphonates) and most people are required to take a daily dose for between three and six months.
You will probably be given regular blood tests while you are taking bisphosphonates so that the levels of serum alkaline phosphatise (SAP) in your blood can be monitored to see if the medication is working.
It is usually recommended that you take each dose of bisphosphonates on an empty stomach, because if there is any food in your digestive system it can stop the tablets being properly absorbed by your body.
If bisphosphonates are prescribed, you may be asked not to eat food and to only drink water for two hours before taking a dose, and for two hours after taking a dose.
Common side effects of bisphosphonates include:
Rare side effects of bisphosphonates include:
- a tingling sensation in your arms or legs,
- changes in mental states, such as confusion,
- hair loss,
- headaches, and
- swelling and soreness of the tongue.
There is a potential risk that bisphosphonates can cause birth defects, so women should avoid becoming pregnant while taking the medication by ensuring that an effective method of contraception is used during sexual intercourse.
Zoledronic acid
A newer type of bisphosphonate, known zoledronic acid, is given by injection. Zoledronic acid is a long-acting medication so you will only need to be given one injection a year.
Flu-like symptoms, such as chills, fever and joint pain, are common after receiving your first injection, although these side effects should pass within three to four days.
As with other bisphosphonates, zoledronic acid should not be used during pregnancy. You will require an effective method of contraception to avoid becoming pregnant.
Dietary supplements
Your GP may also recommend that you take regular vitamin D and calcium supplements, because both of these substances can strengthen your bones.
Surgery
If you experience osteoarthritis, surgery may be required to repair or replace a damaged joint.
See Useful links for more information about surgical treatment for osteoarthritis.
