Zoledronic Acid

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Aclasta, Zometa

Drug group:

Drug for bone disorders, anti-cancer drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Zoledronic acid is used in the treatment of various bone disorders:

• Osteoporosis in men and postmenopausal women - particularly those who have had a recent osteoporotic fracture or who are on long-term corticosteroids
• Paget’s disease of the bone
• Also used to prevent bone damage in advanced cancer that has spread to bone
• Can be useful if calcium levels are high - the reduction of calcium release from bones causes blood calcium levels to fall

How does it work?

Zoledronic acid is a bisphosphonate – it reduces the rate at which calcium is released from bones, making them less liable to fracture

How should it be used?

You may need to take a calcium and/or vitamin D supplement before or after treatment

What is the typical dosage?

The drug is given only under medical supervision and is not for self-administration.

• 4–5mg given via intravenous infusion
• Osteoporosis: Once yearly
• Paget’s disease and high blood calcium associated with cancer: One-off dose, can be repeated if required
• Advanced cancer involving bone: Every 3–4 weeks

How quickly will it start to work?

Up to 3 months               
                  

How long will the effects last?

Up to a year                     
         

When should I stop using it?

Discuss with your doctor      
                  

Is it safe for prolonged use?

There have been rare reports of ulceration of the jaw bones.

Blood calcium levels and your overall health will be monitored.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: flu-like symptoms - bone pain/fever/fatigue (especially with the first dose)
• Less common: nausea, vomiting, palpitations, severe headaches, dizziness
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, itching, facial swelling, tingling, muscle spasms, pain in the jaw

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: recent hip fracture, kidney problems, current/planned pregnancy, previous allergic reaction to any bisphosphonate drug
• Other medicines: No drug interactions known
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not recommended, safety not established
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: No special problems