Zometa (Zoledronic Acid for Inj) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Zometa

Cancer »

What is cancer?

Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells anywhere in a body. The abnormal cells are termed cancer cells, malignant cells, or tumor cells. Many cancers and the abnormal cells that compose the cancer tissue are further identified by the name of the tissue that the abnormal cells originated from (for example, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer). Cancer is not confined to humans; animals and other living organisms can get cancer. Below is a schematic that shows normal cell division and how when a cell is damaged or altered without repair to its system, the cell usually dies. Also shown is what can occur when such damaged or unrepaired cells do not die and become cancer cells and proliferate with uncontrolled growth; a mass of cancer cells develop. Frequently, cancer cells can break away from this original mass of cells, travel through the blood and lymph systems, and lodge in other organs where they can again repeat the ...

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Zometa

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Zometa 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 - INJECTION

(ZOLE-eh-dron-ick)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zometa

USES: This medication is used to treat high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia) that may occur with cancer. Zoledronic acid is also used with cancer chemotherapy to treat bone problems that may occur with multiple myeloma and other types of cancer (such as breast, lung) that have spread to the bones. Zoledronic acid belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates. It lowers high blood calcium levels by reducing the amount of calcium released from your bones into your blood. It also works by slowing the breakdown of your bones by cancer to prevent bone fractures.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start receiving zoledronic acid and each time you get a treatment. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional, usually over at least 15 minutes. The dosage is based on your medical condition (including your kidney function) and response to treatment.

For the treatment of high blood calcium levels, fluids are usually given through a vein before you receive this medication. To decrease the chance of kidney problems, drink plenty of fluids during treatment unless otherwise directed by your doctor. It takes at least 7 days after a dose to get the full benefit of this drug. The dose may need to be repeated depending on your blood calcium levels.

For the treatment of multiple myeloma and bone problems caused by the spread of cancer, this medication is usually given every 3 to 4 weeks or as directed by your doctor. You may also be instructed to take calcium and vitamin D supplements each day.