Zoledronic Acid Solution for injection [Hype... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Zoledronic Acid Solution for injection [Hypercalcemia of Malignancy]

Brand name(s):

Aclasta, Reclast, Zometa, Zometa Concentrate

What is this medicine?

ZOLEDRONIC ACID (ZOE le dron ik AS id) lowers the amount of calcium loss from bone. It is used to treat too much calcium in your blood from cancer. It is also used to prevent complications of cancer that has spread to the bone.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• aspirin-sensitive asthma
• dental disease
• kidney disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to zoledronic acid, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medicine?

• certain antibiotics given by injection
• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
• some diuretics like bumetanide, furosemide
• teriparatide
• thalidomide

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. You will need important blood and lab work tests while you are taking this medicine.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

It is important to get the right amount of calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor about the foods you eat and the vitamins you take.

Some people who take this medicine have severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain. Tell your doctor if you have pain that does not go away or that gets worse.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• anxiety, confusion, or depression
• breathing problems
• changes in vision
• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
• jaw burning, cramping, pain
• muscle cramps, stiffness, or weakness
• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bone, joint, or muscle pain
• fever
• hair loss
• irritation at site where injected
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach upset
• tired

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.