Zoledronic acid more commonly known as Reclast, Aclasta or Zometa. This medication works by slowing down osteoclast i.e. bone cells. These osteoclasts generally break down the hard-mineral structure of the bones in order to keep the bones healthy. But when the prostate cancer spreads to bones, these osteoclasts become overactive which cause problems in the body.
Uses for Reclast infusion (generic Zoledronic Acid) –
• Relieving high calcium levels and increased pain caused due to cancer which has spread to the bones.
• Reducing the growth of cancer cells spread to bones. And also helps in delay/prevent fractures.
• Strengthening of bones in Males who are currently receiving hormone therapy.
Zoledronic Acid Cost Information
Zoledronic acid injection (Brand Zometa) is most commonly used medication for prostate cancer. Zometa / Reclast is generally given once every 3 or 4 weeks as an intravenous injection. This medication if given to men are required to take calcium supplement and Vitamin D in order to avoid any problem related to low calcium levels.
Some common Reclast Side effects are –
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Flu-like symptoms
• Kidney problems
• Increase in pain in muscles, bone or joints.
• Red, sore or itchy eyes.
• Problems in stomach or bowel.
Some rare Zoledronic Acid side effects –
• Rashes or itching on the skin
• Increased risk of strokes and heart problems
• Jaw bone problems i.e. Osteonecrosis of the jae
Reclast Cost Information
Clinical trial proving Zoledronic Acid infusion efficacy
Between 2003 and 2007, a study was conducted by recruiting 1071 men who were suffering from advanced prostate cancer. And all the recruitees were randomly divided into 4 groups. Group 1 was given leuprorelin for 6 months and it was the control group; Group 2 was given leuprorelin for 18 months, Group 3 was given leuprorelin for 6 months and zoledronic acid for 18 months and Group 4 was given leuprorelin for 18 months plus zoledronic acid for 18 months. All the persons were given radiotherapy for 5 months after being divided into groups.
After the 3-year follow up it was observed that, zoledronic acid taken for 18 months could decrease osteopenia, and that androgen suppression taken for nearly 18 months didn't increase the vertebral fractures in the patients.
The study was carried out for 7.4 years, during which 91 patients died of prostate cancer. It was observed that there wasn't any difference between the control and experimental group's all-cause mortality or cancer mortality rate. But it was shown that difference seemed to occur on the basis of Gleason score. Patients with Gleason score of 8 – 10 benefitted the most as relapsed rate had reduced by 40%. Patients with Gleason score of 7 or below, there relapse rate was less than 30% with androgen suppression.
According to the study, Zoledronic acid could protect against prostate cancer cells residing in the bone marrow from the androgen suppression.
The information provided on the page is meant for the purpose of being helpful and educational. It should not be considered as medical advice. Reclast, zoledronic acid, aclasta, reclast infusion, zoledronic acid infusion, reclast side effects, zoledronic acid side effects, zoledronic acid cost, reclast cost, zoledronic acid injection, aclasta infusion, side effects of zoledronic acid