Uses of Zometa

Zoledronic acid is the main active ingredient in Zometa, a bisphosphonate drug and is used to slow bone loss caused by cancer cells. Malignant cells of some tumors (most commonly breast, prostate, and lung cancers) can migrate to the bone, also known as bone metastases. In contrast, multiple myeloma is a cancer that affects the plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow and therefore directly involve the bone. In both of these cases, the cancer cells cause the breakdown or wear and tear of normal bone structure. As a result, the affected bone becomes fragile, painful and can even crack due to the impact of cancer cells.
Zometa 4 mg / 100 ml is indicated in the case of preventing bone related events in patients with advanced cancer to the bone, hypercalcemia due to cancer...

Zometa (zoledronic acid) is administered intravenously. Dosage and frequency of use will be determined by the patient's doctor. At the same time, the treating physician may prescribe the patient additional calcium and vitamin D supplements to promote bone health.
Patients should have blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels during treatment with Zometa. The patient's blood creatinine (an indicator of kidney function) will be closely monitored to determine if Zometa is affecting the kidneys. If so, a dose change or complete discontinuation will be considered.

There are several ways to control the side effects of Zometa that patients can apply, so talk with your doctor to choose the most suitable one.
Some of the most common or important side effects of Zometa:
3.1. Unusual vomiting Patients using Zometa may experience nausea and/or vomiting. At that time, the patient should talk to the doctor or nurse to receive a prescription to control this condition effectively. Alternatively, patients may consider changing their diet and trying to limit factors that make vomiting worse, such as overeating, greasy/fatty foods. , spicy or acidic in nature. Patients with severe vomiting may be prescribed drugs that neutralize or reduce gastric acid secretion.
3.2. Decreased red blood cell count (anemia) Red blood cells play a role in transporting oxygen to tissues in the body. Zometa can lower your red blood cell count and you may have symptoms such as fatigue or weakness. At the same time, the patient should contact the doctor immediately if the patient experiences shortness of breath, shortness of breath or chest pain.
3.3. Bone, joint and muscle pain Zoledronic acid in Zometa can cause side effects of joint pain, headache... This condition of Zometa can occur after a while of starting the drug. Report these symptoms to your DSA doctor for advice on dialysis therapy. Hip, thigh, and groin pain can be caused by an atypical femoral fracture. Inform the treating physician immediately of any manifestations of pain in this area.
3.4. Fatigue Fatigue is a very common symptom in patients undergoing cancer treatment. Fatigue is often not relieved by rest. While taking Zometa and for some time afterward, patients need to adjust their daily routine, spend more time in the day resting and try to limit energy used for more important activities. Moderate exercise, such as walking, is also a means of managing cancer fatigue.
3.5. Shortness of breath Bronchospasm is a constriction of the pulmonary airways due to muscle tension. Aspirin-sensitive patients may experience bronchospasm associated with zoledronic acid. Notify physician if patient has difficulty breathing, chest tightness or wheezing.
3.6. Less common but important side effects of Zometa Tumor of the Jaw (ONJ): this is a rare side effect, however. Normally the upper jaw (maxillary bone) and lower jaw (mandibular bone) are normally covered by gum tissue, in the case of ONJ this tissue is gone and the bone is exposed. Typical symptoms associated with ONJ are: pain, swelling or infection of the gums, loose teeth, exposed bone (usually at the site of previous extraction). Some patients may experience numbness or tingling in the jaw or a sensation of "heaviness" in the jaw. ONJs may be asymptomatic for weeks or months and are only recognized when bone is exposed. ONJs usually appear soon after a dental procedure, although not always. Stop treatment with Zometa at least 3 weeks before any dental procedure. Before starting treatment, patients should have a complete dental exam, cleaning and removing any teeth that are in poor health: Check dentures for a snug fit. Brush your teeth after meals and before going to bed with a soft toothbrush. Floss gently once a day. If your gums are bleeding, talk to your doctor about flossing. Check teeth and gums in the mirror daily to check for sores, swelling, loose teeth, pain, numbness or other changes and notify your doctor immediately. Acute Reactions: Zometa infusion can cause a reaction that occurs within 3 days of the infusion and can cause chills, fever, and muscle aches. Before taking any medication, tell your healthcare provider as these can also be signs of an infection. If the patient can take anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen (Motrin) and Naproxen (Aleve), they can be helpful in treating the side effects of Zometa. Reactions usually occur during or shortly after the first infusion, but do not occur after subsequent doses. Kidney problems: Zometa can cause kidney problems, including increased creatinine levels, as seen on blood tests. Hypocalcemia: Zometa may lower calcium levels, the patient's calcium levels should be monitored with blood tests. If the patient experiences muscle cramps or confusion, contact the physician immediately.

Exposure of the fetus to Zometa can cause birth defects, so patients should not become pregnant or father a child while taking Zometa. Effective birth control is necessary during treatment with Zometa. It is advisable to consult your doctor before breast-feeding while taking Zometa. Zoledronic acid is the main active ingredient in Zometa, a bisphosphonate drug and is used to slow bone loss caused by cancer cells. To ensure effective treatment and avoid side effects, users need to strictly follow the instructions of doctors and medical staff.
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Reference source: oncolink.org