Zoledronic acid

What it is used for

• Osteoporosis, once a year (Aclasta)
• Paget's disease of bone
• Preventing bone problems caused by cancer that has spread to the bone, and high calcium caused by cancer (Zometa)

Read our guides:

• Osteoporosis

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

• Lowering the chance of some breast cancers coming back after the menopause

How it works

Zoledronic acid slows down the cells that break down bone. This allows bone-building cells to catch up, making bones denser and less likely to break.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Zoledronic acid can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

• flu-like symptoms for 1 to 3 days after the first drip
• muscle and joint pain
• headache
• high temperature
• feeling sick

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

• jaw pain, a loose tooth or a mouth sore that does not heal
• new pain in your thigh, hip or groin
• eye pain or redness
• peeing much less than usual

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

• You will have a kidney blood test before each drip.
• Have a dental check-up before starting, and look after your teeth.
• Drink plenty of fluids on the day of the drip.
• Make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.