What is Zoledronic acid?
Reclast and Zometa are two distinct kinds of zoledronic acid.Reclast is a treatment used to treat or help prevent osteoporosis due to menopausal or steroid usage. Zoledronic acid can also increase the mass of bones in people suffering from osteoporosis. Reclast can be used when there is a high likelihood of fractures in your bones.Reclast can also be utilized in the treatment of Paget's diseases of the bone.
Zometa can be used to treat high blood calcium levels triggered by cancer (also known as hypercalcemia due to cancer). The medication also helps treat the condition called multiple myeloma (a kind of bone tumor in the marrow) as well as the bone tumor that has spread to other parts of the body.
It is not advised to use Reclast and Zometa simultaneously.Zoledronic acid can be used for other purposes not covered in this medication guide.
Side effects of Zoledronic acid
Get immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as hives, wheezing, or chest tightness, difficulty breathing; swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Zoledronic acid could cause severe adverse effects. Consult your doctor immediately if you suffer from:
- Unusual or new pains in your thigh or hip;
- Jaw pain, numbness, or gum swelling or redness; loose teeth; or slow healing following dental treatment;
- Severe joint, bone, or muscle discomfort;
- Kidney issues: little or no urinary frequency, swelling in your ankles or feet, fatigue, or feeling tired.
- Low red blood cells (anemia)—pale skin or a feeling of fatigue that is unusual, faint or lightheaded, cold hands and feet;
- Low levels of calcium—muscle spasms or contractions, numbness, or a tingly sensation (around your mouth or even in your toes, fingers, and fingers).
The risk of serious kidney side effects could be more common in older people.
Common side effects of zoledronic acids can include:
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation;
- Muscle pain or joint discomfort;
- Fever or any other influenza symptoms;
- Tiredness;
- Eye pain or swelling;
- Discomfort in your arms or legs;
- Headache
This is not a comprehensive list of all the side effects. Others could happen. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar or related drugs
Prednisone, hydrochlorothiazide, alendronate, dexamethasone, estradiol, Prolia, and Fosamax
Warnings
Do not take it when you are expecting. Use effective birth control and consult your doctor about when to avoid pregnancy once you have stopped using zoledronic acid.
Zoledronic acid may cause kidney damage, especially if you are dehydrated, use diuretics, or suffer from kidney disease. Consult your physician if you have fewer urinations than normal, if you notice swelling around your ankles or feet, or if you are tired or feeling sluggish.
Consult your physician for any muscle spasms, numbness, or sensations of tingling (in your feet and hands or around your mouth), new and unusual pain in your hips, or if you experience severe discomfort in your joints, muscles, bones, or
Before you take this drug
You shouldn't be treated with zoledronic acid if you are allergic to it.
It is also not recommended to receive Reclast if you are:
- The calcium levels are low in the blood (hypocalcemia)
- Serious kidney condition.
It is not recommended to treat with zoledronic acids if you are currently taking some other bisphosphonate (such as alendronate (etidronate), alendronate risedronate, pamidronate, and tiludronate).
Talk to your physician If you've ever had:
- Kidney disease;
- Hypocalcemia;
- Parathyroid or thyroid operation;
- Surgical procedure to eliminate a portion of your intestine
- Asthma is caused by the use of aspirin.
- Any illness that makes it difficult for your body to take in the nutrients in the food you eat (malabsorption);
- If you are dehydrated;
- If you are taking diuretics or a "water pill".
Zoledronic acid may cause serious kidney issues, especially if you are dehydrated, taking diuretic medications, or suffer from kidney disease.
The acid zoledronic can cause jaw bone issues (osteonecrosis). The risk is greatest for those suffering from blood-cell disorders, cancer, pre-existing dental issues, or those who are treated with steroids, chemotherapy, or radiation. Talk to your doctor about the risk you are taking.It is possible that you will need to take an unfavorable pregnancy test prior to commencing this treatment.
Avoid using this medication when you are pregnant. This medication could harm a baby who is not born and cause a birth defect. Zoledronic acid can stay in your body for several weeks or even years after the last dose. Make sure you use effective birth control methods to avoid the birth of a baby while using this medication. Discuss with your physician the need to stop pregnancy following the discontinuation of zoledronic acid.
This medicine can impact fertility (the ability to bear children) in women. But it is crucial to utilize birth control to stop pregnancy, as the zoledronic acid could affect the unborn baby.You shouldn't breastfeed while taking zoledronic acid.
How to take Zoledronic?
Zoledronic acid is administered as an injection into veins. Your healthcare provider will offer the injection.Zoledronic acid is often administered as an individual dose, only once. It can also be administered once every one or two years. The frequency of zoledronic acids will depend on the reason for which you're using this drug. Follow the instructions of your physician.
Take at least two glasses of water several hours prior to the injection to avoid becoming dehydrated.You'll need to take regular medical tests.Be sure to focus on your dental hygiene during the use of zoledronic acid. Cleanse and brush your teeth on a regular basis. If you are going to need any dental procedure (especially surgery), be sure to inform the dentist in advance that you're taking zoledronic acid.
Zoledronic acid is just one part of a full program of treatment that may also involve diet modifications and taking vitamin and calcium supplements. Follow your doctor's advice carefully.The doctor you consult will determine the length of time you will be treated with this medication. Zoledronic acid is typically prescribed for 3 to 5 years.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Contact your doctor for advice in the event that you don't make an appointment for a zoledronic acid injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
Avoid this
Do not smoke or attempt to stop. Smoking cigarettes can lower your bones mineral content, which makes fractures more likely.Do not consume large quantities of alcohol. Alcohol consumption can also lead to bone loss.
Interaction with other drugs
Zoledronic acid may cause kidney damage, particularly in conjunction with certain medications to treat cancer, inflammation, osteoporosis, organ rejection from a transplant, bowel problems, high blood pressure, or arthritis pain (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).
Other medications can influence zoledronic acid, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor all the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
