Drug family: Bisphosphonate
IN WHICH CASE IS THE DRUG ACLASTA PRESCRIBED?
This medicine belongs to the family of bisphosphonates (formerly diphosphonates). It works by blocking cells that destroy bone and fighting against demineralization; it therefore opposes the release of bone calcium into the blood. It reduces the risk of fracture due to osteoporosis .
osteoporosis , whether or not associated with prolonged treatment with corticosteroids , in postmenopausal women and men at high risk of fracture;
Paget 's disease .
You can consult the following article(s):
PRESENTATIONS OF THE DRUG ACLASTA
The prices mentioned do not take into account the pharmacist's " dispensing fees ".
COMPOSITION OF THE DRUG ACLASTA
| vial | |
| Zoledronic acid | 5mg |
CONTRAINDICATIONS OF THE DRUG ACLASTA
allergy to drugs of the bisphosphonate family,
hypocalcemia ,
severe kidney failure ,
pregnancy ,
breastfeeding .
ATTENTION
Special monitoring is necessary in case of kidney malfunction, taking diuretics or drugs toxic to the kidneys and in the elderly. On the day of the infusion , it is recommended to drink at least half a liter of liquid before and after the treatment.
In the treatment of Paget 's disease , this medicine exposes you to a risk of hypocalcaemia which can result in neurological and muscular manifestations (tingling of the hands and feet, muscle cramps, convulsions ). A blood calcium test is recommended before the infusion and sufficient intakes of calcium and vitamin D are necessary for at least 10 days after the infusion .
Damage to the jaw bones (osteonecrosis) which may lead to tooth loss has been reported rarely in people taking bisphosphonates. A dental examination and preventive care may be necessary before starting treatment, especially in the event of a history of cancer chemotherapy , radiotherapy or the taking of corticosteroids . Good oral hygiene and regular dental monitoring are recommended to limit the risks. If you need dental care, tell your dentist about the administration of this medication. A patient card containing information on the risk of osteonecrosis should be given to you by your doctor or pharmacist.
In case of persistent pain, weakness or discomfort in the thigh, hip or groin, contact your doctor immediately; examinations must be carried out to look for a possible fracture of the femur.
Driver: this medication may cause dizziness or reduced alertness .
FERTILITY, PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
The effect of this drug during pregnancy and lactation is poorly known: its use is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND DOSAGE OF THE DRUG ACLASTA
The solution must be administered by means of an infusion lasting at least 15 minutes and under no circumstances by direct intravenous injection.
USUAL DOSE:
Adult over 18 :
Osteoporosis : 1 injection of 5 mg, once a year.
Paget 's disease : 1 single injection of 5 mg.
TIPS
Regular physical exercises adapted to age and physical condition help to limit the progression of osteoporosis .
Moderate alcohol consumption and smoking cessation are also recommended, as both alcohol and tobacco promote bone loss.
Flu - like illness (which may include fever, headache, fatigue, digestive disturbances , muscle or joint pain) frequently occurs within three days of drug infusion ; it can be fought by taking paracetamol or ibuprofen.
After opening the bottle, the solution should be used immediately. If this is not the case, it may possibly be stored at 2°C to 8°C for a maximum of 24 hours.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF THE DRUG ACLASTA
Very common (more than 10% of patients): fever.
Frequent (1 to 10% of patients): pain or redness at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea , headache, dizziness , flu, cold, anemia , red eyes, heart rhythm disturbances , muscle or joint pain, bone pain.
Uncommon (less than 1 in 100 patients): difficult digestion, abdominal pain, constipation , dry mouth, heartburn, inflammation of the esophagus, skin rash , itching, sweating, insomnia or drowsiness, tingling, tremor, malaise, taste disturbances, dizziness , palpitations , high blood pressure, flushing of the face, cough, shortness of breath, cramps, neck or shoulder pain, joint swelling, increased creatinine .
Rare (less than 1 in 1,000 patients): uveitis , fracture of the femur, weakening of the jaw bones (see Warning) or the ear canal (which may result in pain, discharge or chronic ear infections) , impaired kidney function.
