What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Dehydration
- Dental disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Low levels of calcium in the blood
- Lung or breathing disease, such as asthma
- Receiving steroids, such as dexamethasone or prednisone
- An unusual or allergic reaction to zoledronic acid, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
- Certain antibiotics given by injection
- Diuretics, such as bumetanide, furosemide
- NSAIDs, medications for pain and inflammation, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Teriparatide
- Thalidomide
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication.
Some people who take this medication have severe bone, joint, or muscle pain. This medication may also increase your risk for jaw problems or a broken thigh bone. Tell your care team right away if you have severe pain in your jaw, bones, joints, or muscles. Tell you care team if you have any pain that does not go away or that gets worse.
Tell your dentist and dental surgeon that you are taking this medication. You should not have major dental surgery while on this medication. See your dentist to have a dental exam and fix any dental problems before starting this medication. Take good care of your teeth while on this medication. Make sure you see your dentist for regular follow-up appointments.
You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medication. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your care team.
Check with your care team if you have severe diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, or if you sweat a lot. The loss of too much body fluid may make it dangerous for you to take this medication.
You may need bloodwork while taking this medication.
Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects.