Reclast

Generic name: Zoledronic acid

What is Reclast?

Reclast is a medicine used to treat osteoporosis in women after menopause and in patients after a recent hip fracture. It is also used to treat men and women with Paget's disease of the bone. Reclast may also be used to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis. Reclast strengthens your bones by increasing bone mass and lowers the chance of breaking bones.

What is the most important information I should know about Reclast?

Patients with severe kidney problems should not receive Reclast Injection.

Low blood calcium should be corrected prior to receiving Reclast.

If you are being treated for Paget's disease of the bone, it is important to take 1500 milligrams (mg) of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily, especially during the first 2 weeks after getting Reclast. You should take calcium and vitamin D daily as recommended by your healthcare professional.

Who should not take Reclast?

You should not take Reclast if your blood calcium level is too low or if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Reclast.

You should not take Reclast if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Reclast?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Reclast. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking: Zometa, a diuretic or "water pill", nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), or an antibiotic. Certain antibiotics called aminoglycosides may increase the effect of Reclast in lowering your blood calcium for a long period of time. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have ever had a history of kidney disease or liver disease, have or have had low blood calcium, are not able to take daily calcium and vitamin D supplements, had parathyroid or thyroid (glands in your neck) surgery, have trouble absorbing minerals in your stomach or intestines, had sections of your intestine removed, have asthma (wheezing) from taking aspirin, have a planned dental surgery such as tooth extraction, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Make sure to also tell your doctor any allergies to medications.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Osteoporosis

Adults: The usual dosage is a single 5-millligram (mg) infusion once a year given intravenously over no less than 15 minutes.

Paget's Disease of Bone

Adults: The usual dosage is a 5-mg infusion. The infusion time must not be less than 15 minutes given over a constant infusion rate.

How should I take Reclast?

Reclast is always given as an intravenous (IV) dose and takes at least 15 minutes. Reclast is always infused by your doctor or nurse. Drink at least 2 glasses of fluid (such as water), within a few hours before receiving Reclast, as directed by your doctor. You may eat normally before your infusion.

For Osteoporosis: Reclast is given once a year. In patients with osteoporosis, the current recommended daily intake of calcium is 1200 mg and 800 IU to 1000 IU of vitamin D daily. If you have osteoporosis you should take calcium and vitamin D on a daily basis, as recommended by your doctor.

For Paget's Disease: Reclast can be given as a single treatment or your doctor may choose to give you more Reclast infusions based on signs or symptoms of your disease. If you have Paget's disease you should take 1500 mg of calcium a day in divided doses (for example, 750 mg two times a day, or 500 mg three times a day) and 800 IU vitamin D a day. It is especially important to take the calcium and vitamin D supplements during the first 2 weeks after getting Reclast.

What should I avoid while taking Reclast?

You should not receive Reclast if you are already receiving Zometa. Reclast and Zometa are the same medicine; they both contain zoledronic acid. You should also avoid diuretics and certain antibiotics. Some antibiotics called aminoglycosides may increase the effect of Reclast in lowering your blood calcium for a long period of time.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Reclast?

If Reclast is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Reclast with the following: aminoglycosides, diuretics, and drugs known to harm the kidneys (nephrotoxic drugs).

What are the possible side effects of Reclast?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: flu-like symptoms, muscle pain, headache, joint pain, extremity pain

Can I receive Reclast if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not take this medication if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Reclast?

Notify your doctor if you miss your scheduled dose of Reclast.

How should I store Reclast?

This medication will be stored by your healthcare professional and prepared for you before you receive your dose.