Zometa® (Zoledronic Acid) Information Sheet
What is Zometa?
Zometa contains the medicine Zoledronic Acid.
It is a medicine used to help make bones stronger. In pediatric endocrinology, it may be used for children with:
- Weak or fragile bones
- Low bone density
- Certain bone disorders
- High calcium levels in the blood
Zometa helps slow bone breakdown so bones can become stronger over time.
How Is Zometa Given?
Zometa is given as an:
- IV infusion (medicine given through a vein)
The infusion is usually given in a clinic or hospital.
Your child’s healthcare team will decide how often treatments are needed.
Before Treatment
Your child may need:
- Blood tests
- Kidney function tests
- Calcium and vitamin D checks
Your provider may recommend calcium or vitamin D supplements before or after treatment.
It is important for your child to drink enough fluids before the infusion unless your provider gives different instructions.
Common Side Effects
Many children do well with Zometa, but some may feel sick for a short time after the infusion.
Common side effects may include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle or bone aches
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Nausea
These symptoms are usually mild and often improve within a few days.
Serious Side Effects — Call Your Provider Right Away
Call your healthcare provider if your child has:
- Muscle cramps or twitching
- Tingling around the mouth, hands, or feet
- Severe weakness
- Trouble breathing
- Severe bone pain
- Decreased urination
- Swelling of the face or lips
These may be signs of low calcium levels or other serious side effects.
Important Tips
- Keep all follow-up appointments and lab visits.
- Your child may need regular blood tests after treatment.
- Make sure your child takes calcium and vitamin D exactly as directed.
- Tell your provider about all medicines and supplements your child takes.
Dental Care
Very rarely, medicines like Zometa can affect the jawbone.
Tell your dentist your child receives Zometa. Good dental care is important during treatment.
Call your provider if your child has:
- Jaw pain
- Swelling in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores that do not heal
When to Call the Healthcare Provider
Call your provider if:
- Your child has side effects that worry you
- Your child develops severe pain or weakness
- Your child is vomiting or not drinking well
- Your child has numbness or tingling
Seek emergency care for:
- Trouble breathing
- Seizures
- Severe allergic reaction
Storage
Zometa is usually stored and given by the healthcare team.
Questions?
If you have questions about Zometa or your child’s treatment plan, contact the team at Endo For Kids
