Indications 

Zoledronic acid is for the treatment of Paget’s disease, a type of bone disease that leads to weak and abnormal bones. Indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in both men and women after menopause who are at high risk of fractures.  

It can be used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in individuals who are undergoing long-term corticosteroid therapy, such as prednisone. Zoledronic acid acts by inhibiting bone resorption and preserving bone strength, ultimately reducing the risk of fractures. This medication belongs to the bisphosphonates drug class. 

Uses and Dosage 

Please read the following Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before commencing the use of this product and each time you get a refill. If you have any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. 

This medication is administered as a single dose, following the direction of your doctor. Slowly infused into a vein over a minimum of 15 minutes. The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. 

On the day of treatment, please eat and drink normally. Drink at least 2 glasses of fluid before treatment, unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Consume plenty of fluids when taking this medication. 

If you are self-administering this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, examine this product visually for any discoloration or particles. If any are present, do not use the liquid. Educate yourself on how to safely store and dispose of medical supplies. 

Avoid combining zoledronic acid with IV fluids containing calcium, such as Hartmann’s solution, Ringer’s solution, or parenteral nutrition-TPN/PPN. For more information, please consult your pharmacist. 

Your doctor may advise you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements each day. If you have Paget’s disease, consume the recommended amount of calcium and vitamin D during the 2 weeks after receiving the zoledronic acid dose. Vitamin D and calcium are vital in preventing low levels of calcium in the blood. Please inform your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of low calcium, such as muscle spasms and numbness/tingling, particularly around the lips/mouth. 

For the treatment of Paget’s disease, this medication is administered as a single dose and may be repeated based on your symptoms. For osteoporosis treatment, a single dose is given once a year. Speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication for an extended period. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions 

• Hives 
• Wheezing, chest tightness, or trouble breathing 
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience: 

• New or unusual pain in your thigh or hip 
• Jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work 
• Severe joint, bone, or muscle pain 
• Signs of kidney problems: little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, or feeling tired  
• Signs of low red blood cells: pale skin, unusual tiredness, feeling light-headed or short of breath, or cold hands and feet  
• Signs of low calcium levels: muscle spasms or contractions, numbness, or tingly feeling (around your mouth or in your fingers and toes)  

Common Side Effects 

• Trouble breathing 
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation 
• Bone pain, muscle or joint pain 
• Fever or other flu symptoms 
• Tiredness 
• Eye pain or swelling 
• Pain in your arms or legs 
• Headache 

 Caution 

Zoledronic acid is contraindicated in pregnant women as it may cause harm to the unborn baby. If you are planning to use this medication, ensure you are using effective birth control and consult your doctor on the recommended duration for preventing pregnancy after stopping the medicine. 

Reclast has the potential to cause severe kidney problems, especially if you are dehydrated, taking diuretic medications, or have an existing kidney disease. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience decreased urine output, swelling in the feet or ankles, or unusual fatigue or shortness of breath. 

Seek medical attention if you have muscle spasms, numbness or tingling (especially in the hands and feet or around the mouth), new or unusual hip pain, or severe joint, bone, or muscle pain while using Reclast. 

Your doctor may recommend a dental examination for preventive tooth and gum care before commencing your zoledronic acid treatment. This is especially important if you have cancer, are undergoing chemotherapy or steroid therapy, or have poor dental health. 

There have been reports of bone loss in the jaw, known as osteonecrosis of the jaw, in some individuals using medications similar to Reclast. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after gum-related injuries or surgeries. You may be at higher risk of developing osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer, or have undergone chemotherapy, radiation, or steroid therapy. Other risk factors include pre-existing dental problems, anemia, and blood clotting disorders.