Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ZOLEDRONIC ACID - INJECTION

(ZOLE-eh-dron-ick acid)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zometa

WARNING: This medication may cause severe kidney problems or possibly kidney failure if given too quickly (over less than 15 minutes) or if the dose exceeds the recommended dose (4 mg). Give this drug exactly as prescribed. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.

Uses

Zoledronic acid is used to treat a condition of the bones (hypercalcemia of malignancy-HCM) sometimes caused by cancer. This condition causes high calcium levels (hypercalcemia) and weakens your bones.

How To Use

Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. Do not mix this drug with calcium-containing mixing solutions (e.g., Lactated Ringers). If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Give this medication by vein (IV) over at least 15 minutes in a saline (0.9% sodium chloride) or dextrose (D5W) solution as directed by your doctor. Additional IV fluids may be given before, during, or after your treatment with this drug. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy but should not be greater than 4 mg (each dose) or be given faster than the recommended rate (over 15 minutes). Doses greater than 4 mg or given quickly increase the risk for kidney problems. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. It may take up to 7 days before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, pain/redness/swelling at the injection site, or flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, muscle/joint aches or pains) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: change in amount of urine, rash, itching, dizziness, lightheadedness, unusual weakness or tiredness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing, burning or painful urination, mental/mood changes (e.g., agitation, anxiety, confusion). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: chest pain, swelling of the legs or mouth, trouble swallowing, eye or vision problems (e.g., "pink eye"/conjunctivitis), persistent sore throat and fever, unusual bruising or bleeding. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, asthma, any allergies (especially to other bisphosphonates such as alendronate, risedronate). Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: certain "water pills" (loop diuretics such as bumetanide or furosemide), aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin), mineral supplements (especially those containing calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: change/decrease in amount of urine.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., albumin, calcium levels, serum creatinine) will be performed to monitor your progress or possible side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose or your dose is interrupted, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store the unmixed vials at room temperature between 56 and 86 degrees F (13 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. After mixing and/or subsequent dilution with IV fluids, this product should be refrigerated between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C) and used within 24 hours. Discard any unused portion of the vial(s).

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).