What is Zometa?

Zometa is a medication given to cancer patients who have bone complications due to elevated levels of blood calcium. The medication works by reducing the amount of calcium that enters the bloodstream from the bones. The drug is considered a bisphosphonate because it is a type of medication that reduces bone mass loss. It is not an anti-cancer drug, yet it is used in conjunction with anti-cancer medicines.

Administration

Zometa is given to patients in a clinical setting intravenously. Patients are monitored while the drug is being received. It takes 15 to 20 minutes for the dosage to be administered. The effects of the medication are generally seen within 7 days of administration. Zometa treatments are generally given every 21 to 30 days. However, how often a patient receives Zometa is determined by the patient's physician and is based on a patient's blood tests.

Side Effects

Zometa side effects can include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, anemia, stomach pain, chills, fever, pain at the injection sight, pain in the bones, joints and muscles, changes in vision, decreased kidney function, painful urination, mood changes and irregular heartbeat. Side effects should be promptly reported to the prescribing physician.

Special Care

Patients who have been injected with Zometa are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids. If pain medications have been prescribed to minimize the effects of Zometa, patients should follow usage directions and not over medicate themselves. If the pain medication does not relieve the pain, the prescribing physician should be contacted.

Allergy Information

People who are allergic to zoledronic acid should not take Zometa. Allergic reactions to the drugs can include swelling around the eyes and lips, hives and, in rare cases, life-threatening reactions. Patients who are treated with Zometa should not also be treated with Reclast, which is also a zoledronic acid.

Warnings

Patients who are pregnant should not take Zometa. Patients who are planning to become pregnant should discuss the issue with their physicians, as it is not advised for women to take Zometa if they are trying to get pregnant. Women who are breastfeeding should not take Zometa. People who have kidney problems should advise their physicians before taking Zometa as it could increase the risk of adverse reactions to the medication.