Zoledronic acid: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use

Functions & Usage

What is Zoledronic Acid used for?

Zoledronic Acid is a drug to treat high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia) which may occur with cancer. Zoledronic Acid is also used together with cancer chemotherapy to treat bone problems that may occur with multiple myeloma and other types of cancer (such as breast, lung) that have spread to the bones. Zoledronic Acid belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates. This medicine lowers high blood calcium levels by reducing the amount of calcium released from the bones into your blood. Zoledronic Acid also works by slowing down the damage to your bones caused by cancer cells to prevent fractures.

What are the rules for using Zoledronic Acid?

Read the pharmacy's drug guide and Patient Information Leaflet, if available, before you get Zoledronic Acid and each time you re-buy. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection into a vein as instructed by your doctor, usually for at least 15 minutes. Dosage is based on your medical condition (including your kidney function) and response to treatment.

If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all the preparation and instructions for use from your health care professional. Before using, inspect this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either of the two things occurs (particles or a discoloration of the liquid occurs) then do not use the drug. Learn how to store and dispose of medical supplies safely.

Avoid mixing Zoledronic Acid with IV fluids which have calcium in them (such as Ringer's solution, Hartmann's solution, parenteral nutrition-TPN / VAT). Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

For the treatment of high blood calcium levels, fluids are usually given intravenously before you receive this medicine. To reduce the chance of kidney problems, drink plenty of fluids during treatment unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. It takes at least 7 days after a dose to get the full benefit of this medication. The dosage that may need to be repeated depends on your blood calcium level.

For the treatment of some myeloma and bone problems caused by the spread of cancer, this medicine is usually given every 3 to 4 weeks or as instructed by your doctor. You may also be instructed to take a daily calcium and vitamin D supplement.

How do I store Zoledronic Acid?

Store at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should be considered before using Zoledronic Acid drugs?

Before using certain drugs, consider the risks and benefits first. This is a decision you and your doctor will have to make. For this drug, pay attention to the following:

Allergy

Tell your doctor if you have any unusual or allergic reactions to this or any other medicine. Also tell your doctor if you have any other types of allergies such as to food, coloring, preservatives, or animal allergies. For over-the-counter products, read the labels on the packaging carefully.

Children

Zoledronic Acid injection is not indicated for use in children.

Elderly

The studies conducted to date have not shown a specific geriatric problem that will limit the usefulness of Zoledronic Acid injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related kidney problems, which may require caution in patients receiving Zoledronic Acid injections.

Is Zoledronic Acid drug safe for pregnant and lactating women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category D. (A = No risk, B = No risk in some studies, C = Possible risk, D = There is positive evidence of risk, X = Contraindicated, N = unknown)

Side effects

What are the possible side-effects of Zoledronic Acid?

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you experience serious side effects, such as:

• Urinating less than usual or not at all;
• Drowsiness, confusion, mood changes, increased thirst, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
• Swelling, weight gain, feeling short of breath
• Muscle spasms, numbness or a tingling feeling (especially around your mouth)
• Fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms
• Pale skin, bruising easily, feeling unusually weak
• Feelings like you might pass out
• Severe joint and bone pain, muscle pain
• Unusual pain in the thigh or hip
• Bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing)

Less serious side effects include:

• Cough
• Vision problems
• Diarrhea, constipation
• Headache, tired feeling
• Mild joint or muscle pain
• Redness or swelling where the needle was placed

Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Drug Interactions

What drugs can interfere with the action of the drug Zoledronic Acid?

Although some drugs should not be taken at the same time, in other cases some drugs can also be used together even though interactions may occur. In such cases, the doctor may change the dose, or take other preventive measures as needed. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other over-the-counter or prescription drugs.

Can certain foods and drinks interfere with the work of Zoledronic Acid drugs?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions can interfere with the performance of the drug Zoledronic Acid?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially:

• Anemia
• Bleeding problems
• Cancer, history of cancer
• Tooth problems
• Dental procedures
• Poor oral hygiene
• Surgery (for example, dental surgery) - May increase the risk of serious jaw problems.
• Asthma, sensitive to aspirin
• Heart disease
• Kidney illness
• Mineral imbalances (eg, high or low blood calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, or potassium) - Use with caution. It might make things worse.
• Bowel resection
• Parathyroid disease (for example, hypoparathyroidism)
• Parathyroid surgery
• Absorption problems or stomach
• Thyroid surgery - this condition can increase your risk of having hypocalcemia (low levels of calcium in the blood).
• Dehydration (not enough water or fluids in your body) - May increase your risk of serious kidney problems.
• Hypocalcemia (low calcium in the blood)
• Severe kidney disease (for example, kidney failure) - Should not be used in patients with this condition.

Dose

The information provided is not a substitute for a doctor's prescription. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dosage of Zoledronic Acid for adults?

Usual adult dose for osteolytic bone lesions of multiple myeloma:

Zometa (R):

4 mg IV for not less than 15 minutes, every 3-4 weeks

Usual adult dose for Osteolytic Bone Metastases of Solid Tumors:

Zometa (R):

4 mg IV for not less than 15 minutes, every 3-4 weeks

Usual Adult Dose for Malignant Hypercalcemia:

Zometa (R):

Maximum Dose: single dose 4 mg IV infusion over no less than 15 minutes

Usual Adult Dose for Paget's Disease:

Reclast (R):

5 mg IV infusion, at a constant infusion rate, not less than 15 minutes

Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements:

• Calcium: 750 mg of elemental calcium orally twice a day, or 500 mg orally three times a day.
• Vitamin D: 800 international units orally every day, especially within 2 weeks after drug administration.

Usual adult dosage for osteoporosis:

Reclast (R):

5 mg IV infusion for not less than 15 minutes, once a year

Usual adult dosage for osteoporosis prevention:

Reclast (R):

5 mg IV infusion over no less than 15 minutes, every 2 years

What is the dosage of Zoledronic Acid for children?

Safety and effectiveness have not been determined in pediatric patients (less than 18 years).

In what dosages and preparations Zoledronic Acid is available?

Zoledronic Acid is available in dosages: 5 mg / 100 mL solution

What to do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (119) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Symptoms of an overdose that may occur include:

• Fever
• Weak
• Muscle cramp
• Irregular heartbeat, beating fast
• Dizzy
• Uncontrolled eye movements
• Double vision
• Depression
• Difficulty walking
• Uncontrollable shaking of parts of your body
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Hard to breathe
• Pain, burning, numbness or tingling sensation in the hands or feet
• Trouble speaking
• Difficulty swallowing
• Less urination

What should I do if I forget to take medicine or forget to take medicine?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical consultation, diagnosis or treatment.