Osteoporosis Infusion Guide

Zoledronic acid (Aclasta) belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates. These medications are used to reduce bone loss (“resorption”) in osteoporosis and diseases such as Paget’s disease, thereby reducing fracture occurrence.

It also lowers high blood calcium levels by reducing the amount of calcium released from your bones into your blood which is beneficial in certain malignancies such as multiple myeloma and bone tumors.

Your MD or Naturopathic Physician can refer directly to our clinic. The referral must include recent lab work including serum Calcium, GFR and Creatinine (“kidney functions”). A significant reduction in kidney function or low calcium levels are exclusion criteria unless rectified.

These infusions are generally done once a year (5mg IV)

No, this is a medical treatment, and a physician referral is required.

We schedule 60 minutes for your first infusion. You will have a private treatment room with a comfortable chair and WiFi. The treatment will be provided by a registered nurse and overseen by a medical doctor. The actual infusion takes 30 – 60 minutes and you will be required to remain onsite for observation for an additional 20-30 minutes. 

Minor side effects are relatively uncommon but can occur. Headaches, dizziness, tiredness, or flu-like symptoms (such as fever, chills, muscle/joint aches) may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, please inform your treating physician.

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any of the following, please alert your treating physician immediately: new or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain, jaw or ear pain (osteonecrosis of the jaw has been reported in the literature), increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, vision problems, numbness or tingling, muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), seizures.

A very serious allergic (anaphylactic) reaction to this drug is very rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

“Hives” / rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness or any trouble breathing.