What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Zometa (Zoledronic Acid)
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Zometa (zoledronic acid) is a medication given via an intravenous (IV) infusion to treat high calcium levels in the blood due to malignancy and to treat multiple myeloma and bone cancer from solid tumors.
Directions
Your doctor will determine an appropriate treatment regimen for you. Zometa is given as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional.
Talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in the Zometa drug is zoledronic acid. Inactive ingredients include mannitol, USP, as bulking agent, water for injection, and sodium citrate, USP, as buffering agent.
Contraindications
Patients who are allergic to Zometa or to any of its ingredients should not receive it.
Cautions
- Before you begin treatment with Zometa, talk to your doctor about:
- All the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take
- Your allergies
- Your current health problems and past medical history
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Patients on Zometa should not receive Reclast®.
- Patients with high calcium levels in the blood due to malignancy should be adequately rehydrated before they receive Zometa. In addition, electrolytes should be monitored.
- Kidney toxicity may be greater in patients who have kidney issues. Doses should not be more than 4 mg. Patients with severe kidney issues are not recommended to receive Zometa.
- Zometa has been associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw. Patients should receive dental exams before they begin treatment with Zometa. Invasive dental procedures should be avoided.
- Zometa may cause severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain. The medication should be stopped if severe symptoms occur.
- Zometa may be associated with certain types of femoral fractures.
- Low calcium levels should be corrected before patients begin Zometa treatment. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be required.
- Zometa can cause harm to an unborn baby. Effective contraception is recommended during and after Zometa treatment. Contraception options may be discussed with the doctor.
- Breastfeeding is not recommended.
Side Effects
Nausea, fatigue, anemia, bone pain, constipation, fever, vomiting, and shortness of breath are common Zometa side effects. However, other side effects may also occur. Immediately inform your doctor of any side effects that bother you or won’t go away.
Ask your doctor about Zometa.
Reference:
Zometa. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2018.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 9685
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