Generic
Zoledronic Acid 5mg
6 brands available in the market
At a glance
Zoledronic Acid 5mg is used to treat or prevent weakening of the bones (osteoporosis) caused by menopause or use of steroids. It is also used to treat high levels of calcium in people who have cancer.
Description
Zoledronic acid, an aminobiphosphonate, is a potent inhibitor of bone resorption. It inhibits osteoclastic activity and skeletal calcium release caused by tumours.
Indications
- Osteoporosis
- Hypercalcemia
- Paget's disease of bone
- Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
- Increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis
- Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis
- Prophylaxis of postmenopausal osteoporosis
Therapeutic class
Bisphosphonate preparations
Pharmacological class
Bisphosphonate
Pharmacology
Zoledronic acid, an aminobiphosphonate, is a potent inhibitor of bone resorption. It inhibits osteoclastic activity and skeletal calcium release caused by tumours.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits osteoclast activity, reducing bone resorption and strengthening bones.
Dosage
Adult Dose (IV):
- Paget's disease of bone: 5 mg as a single infusion over 15 min
- Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women; Increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis; Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis: 5 mg as a single infusion over at least 15 min, once yearly
- Prophylaxis of postmenopausal osteoporosis: 5 mg as a single infusion once every 2 years
Renal Impairment: CrCl >35 mL/min: no adjustment needed; CrCl <35 mL/min: contraindicated
Administration
- Administered by a doctor or nurse as an IV infusion
- Duration of infusion at least 15 minutes
- Drink plenty of fluids before and after the injection
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Back pain
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Heartburn
- Diarrhea
Precautions & warnings
- May affect ability to drive
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and kidney damage
- Can lower the level of calcium in the blood; take calcium and vitamin D supplements as suggested
- May develop fever or flu like symptoms; usually temporary
- May cause a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw; have regular dental check-ups
- Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients or to any bisphosphonates
- Hypocalcaemia
- Renal impairment (creatinine clearance <35 mL/min)
- Current or recent uveitis, or a history of bisphosphonate-associated uveitis
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug interactions
- Aminoglycosides and loop diuretics: increased risk of hypocalcaemia
- Nephrotoxic agents: increased risk renal dysfunction
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Zoledronic Acid 5mg.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Unsafe; definite evidence of risk to the developing baby; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Probably unsafe; may pass into breast milk and harm the baby; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Not recommended for use in children and adolescents below 18 years of age
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: CrCl >35 mL/min: no adjustment needed; CrCl <35 mL/min: contraindicated
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and hypomagnesemia.
Treatment: Correct by intravenous administration of calcium gluconate, potassium or sodium phosphate and magnesium sulfate.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C prior to opening. Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of the reach and sight of children.