Medication leaflets

Active substance

Results for the substance zoledronic acid

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About this active substance

Zoledronic acid is a bisphosphonate given intravenously to strengthen bones and reduce bone loss. It is used in osteoporosis, Paget’s disease of bone, prevention of bone complications in some cancers with bone metastases, and treatment of cancer-related hypercalcaemia. It works by slowing down bone breakdown.

It is administered as an infusion into a vein, at intervals that depend on the indication: sometimes once yearly in osteoporosis, more often in oncology. Before treatment, kidney function, calcium and vitamin D are usually checked. Patients may receive calcium and vitamin D supplements and should be well hydrated unless the doctor advises otherwise.

Side effects may include fever, muscle or bone pain, chills and flu-like symptoms after the infusion, especially after the first dose. Low calcium, kidney injury, eye pain, rhythm problems or infusion-site reactions may occur. A rare but important risk is osteonecrosis of the jaw, especially in cancer patients.

Tell the doctor before treatment if you have kidney disease, dental problems, planned tooth extraction, low calcium, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Contact a doctor urgently if severe jaw pain, loose teeth, mouth sores, thigh or hip pain, muscle spasms, numbness, reduced urination or swelling occurs. Preventive dental assessment may be needed.