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Ibandronic acid (bisphosphonate)

Amy321
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My oncologist wants to put me on ibandronic acid after I finish chemo for primary breast cancer and said he will discuss it with me further when he sees me next. He also said it is normally prescribed for osteoporosis but has been shown to be effective in treating breast cancer, and he recommended I start taking a Vit D supplement now. I have looked up this drug and everything points to this being a treatment for breast cancer that has spread to the bone. It would be news to me if my cancer has spread to the bone. Is there another reason why I would be prescribed this drug? I am post-menopausal.

Thanks for any advice you can give.

  • Hello Amy321 and thanks for posting,

    Bisphosphonates can be given for several reasons including to try and prevent early stage breast cancer from coming back after surgery in postmenopausal women. This is called adjuvant (additional) treatment. 

    The charity Breast Cancer Now mentions this on their website at this link 

    Like chemotherapy, there are pros and cons with any bisphosphonate treatment and we would always suggest talking through the likely benefits and possible harms with your own specialist team who know you best.

    Please give us a call if you want to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are around weekdays 9-5.

    Wishing you the best,

    Julia

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    Like you I googled this when I was prescribed it nearly two years ago. TNBC and post menopausal. I was also prescribed vit D. It was explained to be that it was to prevent cancer coming back. On a daily pill till June 24 and it is a nuisance but well worth it to prevent a return of cancer. 
    good luck with it x

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