Zoledronic acid may harm an unborn baby. Do not use Zometa if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control, and ask your doctor how long to prevent pregnancy after you stop this medicine.
Zometa can cause serious kidney problems, especially if you are dehydrated, if you take diuretic medicine, or if you already have kidney disease. Call your doctor if you urinate less than usual, if you have swelling in your feet or ankles, or if you feel tired or short of breath.
Also call your doctor if you have muscle spasms, numbness or tingling (in hands and feet or around the mouth), new or unusual hip pain, or severe pain in your joints, bones, or muscles.
Your doctor may recommend you have a dental exam for preventive tooth and gum care before you start your treatment with Zometa. This is especially important if you have cancer, if you are undergoing chemotherapy or using steroids, or if you have poor dental health.
Some people using medicines similar to Zometa have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and pre-existing dental problems.
Avoid having any type of dental surgery while you are being treated with Zometa. It may take longer than normal for you to recover.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with Zometa if you are allergic to zoledronic acid.
You also should not receive Reclast if you have:
low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia); or
severe kidney disease.
You should not be treated with Zometa if are currently using any other bisphosphonate (such as alendronate, etidronate, ibandronate, pamidronate, risedronate, or tiludronate).
To make sure Zometa is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease;
hypocalcemia;
thyroid or parathyroid surgery;
surgery to remove part of your intestine;
asthma caused by taking aspirin;
any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption);
a dental problem (you may need a dental exam before you receive Zometa);
if you are dehydrated; or
if you take a diuretic or "water pill".
Zoledronic acid can cause serious kidney problems, especially if you are dehydrated, if you take diuretic medicine, or if you already have kidney disease.
This medicine may cause jaw bone problems (osteonecrosis). The risk is highest in people with cancer, blood cell disorders, pre-existing dental problems, or people treated with steroids, chemotherapy, or radiation. Ask your doctor about your own risk.
You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment with Zometa.
Do not use Zometa if you are pregnant. Zoledronic acid may harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Zoledronic acid can remain in your body for weeks or years after your last dose. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while using this medicine. Talk with your doctor about the need to prevent pregnancy after you stop using Zometa.
Zoledronic acid may affect fertility (ability to have children) in women. However, it is important to use birth control to prevent pregnancy because zoledronic acid can harm an unborn baby.
You should not breastfeed while using Zometa.
How is Zometa given?
Zometa is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Drink at least 2 glasses of water within a few hours before your injection to keep from getting dehydrated.
You may need frequent medical tests to help your doctor determine how long to treat you with Zometa. Your kidney function may also need to be checked.
Pay special attention to your dental hygiene while using Zometa. Brush and floss your teeth regularly. If you need to have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist ahead of time that you are using Zometa.
Zometa is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.
Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with this medicine.
