Where is Zoledronic Acid used?
Zoledronic Acid is a prescription used for;
- A bone disease called Paget’s disease
- Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of breaking a bone
- Osteoporosis in men at high-risk breaking a bone
- Osteoporosis caused by long-term treatment with corticosteroids
This is a type of medicine called a bisphosphonate. Bisphosphonates are medicine that reduces the turnover of bone. The bone is continually shaped and not a static structure. It is also reformed and rebuilds by cells called osteoblasts. These cells continuously deposit and remove calcium and phosphorus that is stored in a protein network that makes up the structure of the bone.
How does Zoledronic Acid work?
Zoledronic Acid works by binding very tightly to the bone and preventing the calcium from being removed by the osteoclasts. This stops the osteoclasts from breaking down the bone. The reduced bone turnover helps to reduce deformity and keep the bones strong and less likely to break.
How is Zoledronic Acid taken?
This is given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor. It is usually given over at least 15 minutes. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Before using, check the drug visually for discoloration or particles. You should not use the liquid if either is present.
As this medicine slows bone turnover and so prevents calcium from being reabsorbed from the bones into the blood, it can cause the amount of calcium in your blood to fall too low. Your doctor may ask you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements before you have your infusion and if you have Paget’s disease. It may be for at least ten days after it to prevent this.
What are the possible side effects of Zoledronic Acid?
- Headache
- Vision problems
- Joint or muscle pain
- Dizziness
- Cough
- Constipation
- Tried feeling
- Flu-like symptoms (muscle or joint aches, chills, and fever)
What are the precautions in taking Zoledronic Acid?
- Your doctor will want you to have blood tests before you have this medication. It is to check the level of calcium in your blood.
- Your doctor will also check your kidney function before having a dose of this drug. This is important if you have any existing problems or if you are also taking diuretics or other drugs that can affect the kidneys.
- You must drink enough fluid both before and after infusion to prevent dehydration.
- If you have recently broken your hip, it is recommended that this medicine is not given until at least two weeks after the hip is fully repaired.
- This is not recommended for use in people who are allergic to Zoledronic Acid.
- Cancer medications can interact with some other prescriptions and herbal products. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any remedies you are taking. This includes herbal supplements vitamins and over-the-counter drugs.
- If you are a pregnant and breastfeeding woman, consult your doctor first before taking a dose of this medication.
- Always tell other doctors or dentists that you are having certain treatments including teeth problems.
