What Is Zoledronic Acid Used For? (Cont.)

Zoledronic Acid for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, which means "porous bone," is a disease characterized by low bone mass (bone thinning) that leads to fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women are affected by this condition. Fortunately, osteoporosis is a disease that can be prevented and treated.
 
Common causes of osteoporosis include:
 
  • Age-related bone loss
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Long-term corticosteroid use
  • Certain diseases.
     
It is also thought that race and ethnicity may play a role in developing osteoporosis, but more research is needed to determine the connection.
 
Reclast is approved to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with just a single dose per year. Reclast is not approved to prevent osteoporosis.
 

Zoledronic Acid for Treating High Calcium

High blood calcium is a common complication of cancer. This is known medically as hypercalcemia of malignancy. Calcium is a very important mineral and is important for muscle function and heart function. High blood calcium can cause the following symptoms:
 
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Constipation
  • Lethargy
  • Muscle pain or weakness
  • Increased urination
  • Headaches
  • Changes in the heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • Coma.
     
Hypercalcemia of malignancy can occur due to various causes, one of which is bone breakdown. Zoledronic acid is approved to treat hypercalcemia of malignancy and should be used after vigorous rehydration. This typically requires the administration of IV fluids.
 
Zometa (but not Reclast) is approved for this use.
(What Is Zoledronic Acid Used For? Continued: Page 3)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;