Zoledronic Acid Infusion in Edmonton

Zoledronic acid is a bisphosphonate. It works by slowing the cells that break down bone. The benefit is slower bone loss and stronger bones, which can lower the chance of a fracture. It is used for:

• ✦Osteoporosis after menopause
• ✦Osteoporosis in men
• ✦Osteoporosis caused by long-term steroid medicine
• ✦Paget's disease of bone

A nurse places a small IV in your arm. The medicine runs slowly for at least 15 minutes. At Solis, please be prepared to be here for longer than 45 minutes, up to 2 hours, including checks and monitoring.

For osteoporosis, IV zoledronic acid infusion is usually given once a year. For Paget's disease, it is often a single dose. Your prescription sets the dose and schedule.

A few simple steps lower the risk of side effects. These follow Health Canada's drug information for zoledronic acid.

• ✦Eat normally and drink at least 2 cups (500 mL) of fluid before and after
• ✦Take calcium and vitamin D as your prescriber advises
• ✦Get your kidney and calcium bloodwork done first
• ✦Tell us about dental problems or planned dental work

The most common after effects are flu-like: fever, chills, headache, tiredness and muscle, bone or joint aches. They are most common after the first dose and usually pass within a few days. Rest and fluids help. Ask your prescriber which pain medicine is safe for you.

Rare but serious effects need a call to your doctor. Call 911 for trouble breathing or swelling of the face, lips or throat.

• ✦Jaw pain, swelling or a loose tooth
• ✦New thigh, hip or groin pain
• ✦Eye pain, redness or vision changes
• ✦Passing less urine, or muscle spasms and tingling around the mouth