Zoledronic acid

About zoledronic acid

Zoledronic acid is a medication we use to treat osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.

Zoledronic acid helps to strengthen bones by slowing down the process that causes bone loss.

Following your recent fracture, we believe you will benefit from this treatment.

How we give it

We usually give patients zoledronic acid as an intravenous infusion. This means we inject it into your vein. The infusion lasts about 15 minutes and we monitor you for any reactions while it is underway.

Preparing for your infusion

Zoledronic acid can affect your kidneys. We always check your kidney function before your infusion.

Benefits and side effects

The benefits and possible side effects are as follows.

Benefits

Zoledronic acid helps to make your bones stronger. For 23 out of 100 people, a single infusion of Zoledronic acid can reduce the risk of fracture in the first 6 months after treatment.

Side effects

Common

• Flu-like symptoms, headache, joint or muscle pain for 3 to 5 days after the infusion. We recommend you take paracetamol for a day or two afterwards, to minimise potential side effects.
• Dizziness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, for 2 to 3 days after the infusion. You can take anti-diarrhea medication to help with symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Uncommon

• Fast, irregular heartbeat. Tell your GP if you experience this.
• Eye inflammation (redness) causing pain or blurred/double vision; sensitivity to light. Contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms.

Serious (all rare or very rare)

• Low blood calcium levels (hypocalcaemia). This side effect is rare. We ensure your calcium and vitamin D levels are normal before your infusion, by starting you on supplements if you need them. We also recommend you continue them long-term, so you have the calcium and vitamin D you need to strengthen your bones.
• ONJ (osteonecrosis of the jaw). This means healing in the mouth is delayed (for example after major dental surgery). We advise you to maintain good oral (mouth) hygiene and have regular dental check-ups every 6 to 12 months.  This side effect is rare (1 in 1,000). 
• Atypical fracture. This is a type of thigh bone fracture that can occur after many years of treatment. This side effect is rare (1 in 1,000). Seek medical help if this happens.
• Bone damage in the ear. Tell your GP if you experience ear pain, ear discharge or an ear infection. This side effect is very rare (1 in 10,000). 

More information

For more guidance, visit the Royal Osteoporosis Society information on zoledronic acid.