Zoclast
Form: Injection
Strength: 4mg/5ml
Generic Name: Zoledronic Acid 4mg
Company: Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 6500.0 (Injection)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Zoclast is used to treat high calcium levels in blood caused by cancer. Zoclast is also used for bone problems related to cancer, including bone metastases, and osteolytic lesions from multiple myeloma. Zoclast helps treat osteoporosis caused by corticosteroids and increases bone mass in men with osteoporosis. Zoclast is used in postmenopausal women for osteoporosis and Paget’s disease of the bone. Zoclast can also prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Pharmacology
Zoclast belongs to a group of medications called bisphosphonates, which work mainly on the bones. Zoclast helps stop bone breakdown by blocking the activity of bone cells called osteoclasts. After Zoclast is given through an IV, Zoclast quickly moves to the bones. Zoclast works by targeting an enzyme that plays a role in bone breakdown. Zoclast also has anti-cancer effects, helps reduce pain, and prevents the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors. Zoclast does not build up in the blood after repeated doses and is excreted unchanged through the kidneys.
Dosage & Administration
Hypercalcemia of malignancy: The recommended dose is 4 mg given as an intravenous infusion. If calcium levels do not return to normal, retreatment can be considered after 7 days.
Multiple myeloma and bone metastases: The recommended dose is 4 mg every 3-4 weeks. Patients should also take a daily calcium supplement (500 mg) and Vitamin D (400 IU).
Interaction
Zoclast can be safely used with common cancer treatments, diuretics, antibiotics, and pain relievers. However, caution is advised when used with aminoglycosides, as they may cause prolonged low calcium levels. In patients with multiple myeloma, using Zoclast with thalidomide may increase the risk of kidney problems. When used with loop diuretics, Zoclast can increase the risk of low calcium levels. Caution is also needed with other drugs that may harm the kidneys.
Contraindications
Zoclast should not be used by people who are allergic to Zoclast or any of its ingredients, or by those with severe kidney problems (creatinine clearance <30 ml/min). Zoclast is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, jaw bone damage, anemia, bone pain, constipation, fever, vomiting, flu-like symptoms, low calcium levels, muscle pain, joint pain, and low phosphorus levels.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zoclast is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Zoclast should also not be used in children and adolescents under 18 years old.
Precautions & Warnings
Patients should be well-hydrated before receiving Zoclast, especially the elderly or those on diuretics. They should drink two glasses of water before and after the infusion. Blood calcium, phosphate, magnesium, potassium, and kidney function should be monitored regularly. If low calcium, phosphate, or magnesium levels occur, short-term supplements may be needed.
Overdose Effects
Overdose may cause low calcium, phosphate, and magnesium levels. These should be corrected with IV treatments such as calcium gluconate, phosphate, and magnesium sulfate.
Therapeutic Class
Zoclast is a bisphosphonate preparation.
Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
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