ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It's useful for people who can't take bisphosphonate pills.
What it's used for
- Osteoporosis
- Paget's disease of bone
- High calcium and bone problems from cancer (Zometa)
How to take it
- Drink at least 2 glasses of water before the infusion.
- Get enough calcium and vitamin D, and tell your dentist you take it.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Flu-like aches and fever for a few days after the first dose
- Headache
- Joint pain
Call your provider todayJaw pain or a mouth sore that won't heal
Call your provider todayNew thigh or groin pain
Call your provider todayPeeing much less
Call your provider todayEye pain or redness
Warnings
- Not for people with low calcium or severe kidney disease.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Other kidney-affecting medicines add risk.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not used in pregnancy.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Not applicable: it's a yearly infusion scheduled with your provider.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Zoledronic acid (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.