Zoledronic acid belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonate antiresorptive agents to slow down the rate of bone resorption, meaning the bone mineral density indirectly increases.
Zoledronic acid is used for osteoporosis, treatment of bone metastasis, hypercalcemia of malignancy, multiple myeloma and Paget’s disease.
Zoledronic acid is injected through the veins. It is usually administered with adequate Calcium and Vitamin D. Listed below are the indications and dosages.
Hypercalcaemia of malignancy
Adult and elderly
Zometa: 4 mg once over at least 15 minutes. Repeat after at least 7 days if needed.
Bone metastases associated with solid tumours, Osteolytic lesions associated with multiple myeloma
Adult and elderly
Zometa: 4 mg once over at least 15 minutes. Repeat after 3-4 weeks.
Paget’s disease
Adult and elderly
Aclasta: 5 mg once over at least 15 minutes. Repeat after at least 1 year if necessary.
Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis, Increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis, Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
Adult and elderly
Aclasta: 5 mg once over at least 15 minutes. Repeat after 1 year.
Prophylaxis of postmenopausal osteoporosis
Adult and elderly
Aclasta: 5 mg once every 2 years.
Common dosing schedule:
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Zoledronic acid may interact with:
Zoledronic acid may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Zoledronic acid is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Zoledronic acid in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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