GENERIC NAME: ZOLEDRONIC ACID - INJECTION (ZOLE-eh-dron-ick acid)
BRAND NAME(S): Zometa
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: This medication may cause severe kidney problems or possibly kidney failure if given too quickly (over less than 15 minutes) or if the dose exceeds the recommended dose (4 mg). Give this drug exactly as prescribed. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
USES: Zoledronic acid is used to treat a condition of the bones (hypercalcemia of malignancy-HCM) sometimes caused by cancer. This condition causes high calcium levels (hypercalcemia) and weakens your bones.
HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. Do not mix this drug with calcium-containing mixing solutions (e.g., Lactated Ringers). If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Give this medication by vein (IV) over at least 15 minutes in a saline (0.9% sodium chloride) or dextrose (D5W) solution as directed by your doctor. Additional IV fluids may be given before, during, or after your treatment with this drug. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy but should not be greater than 4 mg (each dose) or be given faster than the recommended rate (over 15 minutes). Doses greater than 4 mg or given quickly increase the risk for kidney problems. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. It may take up to 7 days before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, pain/redness/swelling at the injection site, or flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, muscle/joint aches or pains) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: change in amount of urine, rash, itching, dizziness, lightheadedness, unusual weakness or tiredness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing, burning or painful urination, mental/mood changes (e.g., agitation, anxiety, confusion). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: jaw pain, chest pain, swelling of the legs or mouth, trouble swallowing, eye or vision problems (e.g., "pink eye"/conjunctivitis), persistent sore throat and fever, unusual bruising or bleeding. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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