Reclast (zoledronic acid) is a prescription bisphosphonate medication given as an IV infusion to help treat or prevent osteoporosis. It works by slowing down the cells that break down bone, helping to reduce bone loss and lower the risk of fractures.
Here's a quick overview of typical dosing:
- Postmenopausal women Show Full Answer
Reclast (zoledronic acid) is a prescription bisphosphonate medication given as an IV infusion to help treat or prevent osteoporosis. It works by slowing down the cells that break down bone, helping to reduce bone loss and lower the risk of fractures.
Here's a quick overview of typical dosing:
- Postmenopausal women (treatment): 5 mg once a year
- Postmenopausal women (prevention): 5 mg once every two years
- Men with osteoporosis: 5 mg once a year
- Glucocorticoid-related osteoporosis: 5 mg once a year
The infusion itself takes at least 15 minutes and is given through a vein. Before your infusion, keep these things in mind:
- Drink at least two glasses of water in the hours before your appointment
- You can eat normally beforehand
- Talk to your dentist and address any dental concerns before starting treatment
- Let your doctor know about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take
- Your doctor will check your kidney function with a blood test before each dose Common side effects (occurring in roughly 11–24% of people) include:
- Fever
- Joint or muscle pain
- Headache
- Pain in the arms or legs
These flu-like symptoms are often short-term. Many MyOsteoTeam members report that side effects tend to lessen with later yearly infusions. More serious side effects to watch for include:
- Low calcium levels (muscle cramps, numbness, tingling)
- Kidney problems
- Jaw pain or sores that don't heal
- Unusual hip, groin, or thigh pain
- Eye pain or vision changes
- Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain
Seek medical help right away if any of these occur. Always keep your doctor updated about anything unusual after your infusion.
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4 days ago