Reclast (Zoledronic Acid Injection) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Reclast

Osteoporosis »

Osteoporosis facts

Osteoporosis is a condition of increased susceptibility to fracture due to fragile bone.
Osteoporosis weakens bone and increases risk of bone fracture.
Bone mass (bone density) decreases after 35 years of age and decreases more rapidly in women after menopause.
Key risk factors for osteoporosis include genetics, lack of exercise, lack of calcium and vitamin D, personal history of fracture as an adult, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, history of rheumatoid arthritis, low body weight, and family history of osteoporosis.
Patients with osteoporosis have no symptoms until bone fractures occur.
The diagnosis of osteoporosis can be suggested by X-rays and confirmed by tests to measure bone density.
Treatments for osteoporosis, in addition to prescription osteoporosis medications, include stopping use of alcohol and cigarettes, and assur...

Read the Osteoporosis article »

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Reclast Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ZOLEDRONIC ACID SOLUTION - INJECTION

(ZOLE-eh-dron-ick)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Reclast

USES: This medication is used to treat a certain type of bone disease (Paget's disease) that causes abnormal and weak bones. Zoledronic acid is also used to treat bone loss (osteoporosis) in men and in women after menopause. It may also be used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in people who are taking corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for long periods. It works by slowing the breakdown of bone and keeping bones strong. It also helps to reduce the risk of broken bones (fractures). This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates.

Another zoledronic acid product is used to treat bone problems that may occur with cancer. The 2 products should not be used together.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this product and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given as a single dose by a health care professional. It is given slowly into a vein over at least 15 minutes. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The usual maximum adult dose is 5 milligrams.

Eat and drink normally on the day of treatment. Drink at least 2 glasses of fluid before treatment unless otherwise directed by your doctor. It is very important that you get plenty of fluids when you are given this medication.

Your doctor may direct you to take calcium and vitamin D each day. If you have Paget's disease, it is especially important that you take the directed amount of calcium and vitamin D during the 2 weeks after your zoledronic acid dose. Vitamin D and calcium are very important to prevent low levels of calcium in the blood. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of low calcium such as numbness/tingling (especially around the lips/mouth) and muscle spasms.

For the treatment of Paget's disease, this medication is given as a single dose and may be repeated based on your symptoms. For the treatment of osteoporosis, this medication is given as a single dose once a year. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of long-term use of this medication.