Zoledronic Acid, Reclast(US)/Aclasta/Zometa(CDN)
Description: Bisphosphonate Derivative
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Zoledronic acid, Reclast/Aclasta/Zometa is a bisphosphonate that inhibits osteoclasts and slows down bone resorption allowing osteoblasts to work more effectively to build bone mass.
Indications For Use
Osteoporosis
Precautions
Before starting Zoledronic acid, Reclast/Aclasta/Zometa make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, and current medical conditions. Atypical femur fractures, severe joint and bone pain, gastrointestinal irritation, ocular effects, and osteonecrosis of the jaw can occur when taking alendronate and cholecalciferol. Zoledronic acid, Reclast/Aclasta/Zometa should be used with caution in patients with prostate cancer, multiple myeloma, breast cancer, and renal impairment.
Usual Dosing
Usual (IV): 4mg once every (3 to 4 weeks to every 6 months) depending on indicated use.
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take: If removing from the refrigerator, allow the solution to reach room temperature before administration. Infuse over at least 15 minutes. Flush the IV line with 10ml of normal saline following the infusion. Make sure to never infuse other medications using the same line. Patients must be appropriately hydrated prior to treatment.
Side Effects
Fatigue, headache, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, anemia, ostealgia, weakness, myalgia, arthralgia, dyspnea, fever.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only the most common.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if the side effects are not tolerable?
If the side effects are causing a lot of distress to speak to our physician as soon as possible to discuss options.