Reclast and Zometa are two different brands of zoledronic acid.

Reclast is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis caused by menopause, or steroid use. This medicine also increases bone mass in men with osteoporosis. Reclast is for use when you have a high risk of bone fracture.

Reclast is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone.

Zometa is used to treat high blood levels of calcium caused by cancer (also called hypercalcemia of malignancy). This medicine also treats multiple myeloma (a type of bone marrow cancer) or bone cancer that has spread from elsewhere in the body.

You should not use Reclast and Zometa at the same time.

Zoledronic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not be treated with zoledronic acid if you are allergic to it.

You also should not receive Reclast if you have:

• low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia); or
• severe kidney disease.

You should not be treated with zoledronic acid if are currently using any other bisphosphonate (such as alendronate, etidronate, ibandronate, pamidronate, risedronate, or tiludronate).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• kidney disease;
• hypocalcemia;
• thyroid or parathyroid surgery;
• surgery to remove part of your intestine;
• asthma caused by taking aspirin;
• any condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption);
• a dental problem (you may need a dental exam before you receive zoledronic acid);
• if you are dehydrated; or
• if you take a diuretic or "water pill".

Zoledronic acid can cause serious kidney problems, especially if you are dehydrated, if you take diuretic medicine, or if you already have kidney disease.

This medicine may cause jaw bone problems (osteonecrosis). The risk is highest in people with cancer, blood cell disorders, pre-existing dental problems, or people treated with steroids, chemotherapy, or radiation. Ask your doctor about your own risk.

You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.

Do not use if you are pregnant. This medicine may harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Zoledronic acid can remain in your body for weeks or years after your last dose. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while using this medicine. Talk with your doctor about the need to prevent pregnancy after you stop using zoledronic acid.

This medicine may affect fertility (ability to have children) in women. However, it is important to use birth control to prevent pregnancy because zoledronic acid can harm an unborn baby.

You should not breastfeed while using zoledronic acid.

Use Zoledronic Acid (Intravenous) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• new or unusual pain in your thigh or hip;
• jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work;
• severe joint, bone, or muscle pain;
• kidney problems--little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired;
• low red blood cells (anemia)--pale skin, unusual tiredness, feeling light-headed or short of breath, cold hands and feet; or
• low calcium levels--muscle spasms or contractions, numbness or tingly feeling (around your mouth, or in your fingers and toes).

Serious side effects on the kidneys may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effects may include:

• trouble breathing;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation;
• bone pain, muscle or joint pain;
• fever or other flu symptoms;
• tiredness;
• eye pain or swelling;
• pain in your arms or legs;
• headache; or
• anemia.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid smoking, or try to quit. Smoking can reduce your bone mineral density, making fractures more likely.

Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol. Heavy drinking can also cause bone loss.