Sign inBefore having zoledronic acid
Before having zoledronic acid make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you have liver, kidney or heart problems.
- If you are due to have any dental treatment (as your doctor may advise that your dental treatment is completed before starting zoledronic acid).
- If you are a woman and have not yet been through the menopause.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take zoledronic acid
- Zoledronic acid will be given to you by intravenous infusion in a hospital.
- The number of doses you require will depend upon the reason you are being treated with zoledronic acid.
Getting the most from your treatment
- It is important that you do not become dehydrated during treatment with zoledronic acid. Your doctor will probably advise you drink a couple of glassfuls of water before and after your treatment.
- It may be necessary for you to take tablets of calcium and vitamin D as a supplement alongside this treatment. If so, your doctor will prescribe this for you.
- Good dental hygiene is important - this means that you must brush your teeth regularly and have regular dental check-ups.
- Tell your dentist that you are having zoledronic acid as some dental treatments will not be recommended for you.
- Remember to follow any lifestyle advice your doctor has given you. Eating a well-balanced diet, stopping smoking and taking regular exercise can help bones stay strong.
- Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored.
Can zoledronic acid cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Eye problems such as conjunctivitis | If this is troublesome, ask your pharmacist or doctor to recommend some eye drops |
| Feeling or being sick, gastro-intestinal upset | Stick to simple foods and drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor |
| Fever, aches and pains, flu-like symptoms | Take plenty of rest |
| Dizziness, tiredness | If this happens, do not drive or use tools or machines until your reactions return to normal |
- If you experience any pain or numbness in your jaw, or any problems with your mouth or teeth, tell your doctor as soon as possible.
- If you experience any thigh, hip, or groin pain, tell your doctor as soon as possible.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Aclasta® 5 mg solution for infusion, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2010.
- Manufacturer's PIL, Zometa® 4mg/5ml Concentrate for Solution for Infusion, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2010.
- British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)