Zoledronic Acid

Bisphosphonate for skeletal pain, bone resorption, and hypercalcemia of malignancy in dogs, cats, and horses. Zoledronic acid (bisphosphonate). Mechanism: most potent clinically available bisphosphonate — nitrogen-containing compound inhibits farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase in osteoclasts → prevents geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate-dependent osteoclast membrane anchoring → osteoclast apoptosis and reduced bone resorption. IV infusion for skeletal pain, bone tumors, and hypercalcemia. Key information Bisphosphonate — IV infusion only. Administer over ≥15 min. Renal monitoring required. Osteonecrosis of the jaw (rare with chronic use). Do not use in pregnant animals.

IV infusion (horses): dilute in 0.9% NaCl; infuse over 15–30 min via jugular catheter. Ensure adequate hydration before and after infusion. Single-dose treatment. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

GI: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain. Renal: acute kidney injury (hydrate before infusion — risk with dehydration). Hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia (bisphosphonate — monitor electrolytes). Osteonecrosis of the jaw (rare, prolonged use in humans). Flu-like syndrome (post-infusion). Uveitis (rare).

For animals Horses only. Ensure adequate hydration. Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Monitor for colic, fever, and injection site reactions. Reserve for labeled indications — osteonecrosis risk with overuse. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. For people handling this medication Administered by veterinary professionals only. No specific human precautions for caregivers beyond normal hygiene.

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Zoledronic acid overdose causes kidney failure and severe hypocalcemia. Medical emergency.