Zometa (Zoledronic Acid)

Zometa Information:

Zometa (generic name: Zoledronic Acid) is a drug which is prescribed for the treatment of multiple myeloma (bone marrow cancer)or bone cancer that has metastasized from other areas of the body. It is also used to treat high blood levels caused by cancer. Zometa belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates that are used to reduce or delay complications from bone metastases or bone lesions from multiple myeloma. These drugs reduce the "wearing away" of bone and slow the abnormal build-up of unstable bone. Zometa was tested in three large studies involving over 3,000 patients. These patients all had bone metastases from solid tumours or multiple myeloma. They were all receiving chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. In these studies, patients who were given Zometa had fewer bone complications, a longer time until bone complications occurred, and a lower risk of developing bone complications, than the patients who did not take Zometa.

"Zoledronic Acid is a generic drug used to reduce or delay complications from bone metastases or bone lesions from multiple myeloma.. It is manufactured by licensed generic manufacturers. This product DOES NOT originate from Novartis and IS NOT authorized by Novartis, the owner and maker of the branded Zometa prescription pharmaceutical product."

Zometa Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Zometa including cough, vision problems, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, fatigue, mild joint or muscle pain and redness or swelling at the injection site. More serious side effects may include urinating more or less than usual, muscle spasms, numb or tingling feeling, fever, chills, body aches, unusual weakness, pale skin, easy bruising, unusual weakness, feeling like you might pass out, severe joint or bone pain, new or unusual pain in the thighs or hips and bronchospasm. If you experience any side effects you must seek immediate medical attention for safety.

Zometa Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed it you. Zometa is injected through an IV (drip). You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Zometa injection must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take at least 15 minutes to complete. Zometa is sometimes given only once per year. Drink at least 2 glasses of water within a few hours before your injection to keep from getting dehydrated.

Zometa Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Zometa you should not take it, and should inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, including liver or kidney disease, aspirin-sensitive asthma, thyroid disorders, malabsorption syndrome, bone cancer, a history of surgical removal of part of your intestine, low levels of calcium in the blood or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is very important to also consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Zometa, including diuretics, antibiotics, other medications that can harm the kidneys, cancer medications and NSAIDs. You should also inform you doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Zometa may cause harm to your baby.