Indications
- Reclast is indicated for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
- It is prescribed to help increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures, including hip fractures and vertebral fractures.
- Reclast may also be used to treat osteoporosis in men, and to prevent or treat glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in both men and women at high risk of fracture.
Dosage and administration
- Reclast is typically administered as an intravenous infusion over a period of at least 15 minutes.
- The recommended dosage of Reclast for the treatment of osteoporosis is a single infusion of 5 mg once every 2 years.
- For the prevention of osteoporosis, Reclast is administered as a single infusion of 5 mg once every 2 years.
- Reclast should be administered by a healthcare professional experienced in intravenous infusion techniques.
- Before receiving Reclast, patients should be adequately hydrated and have their serum calcium levels corrected, if necessary.
- Patients should avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after receiving Reclast to reduce the risk of esophageal adverse reactions.
- Reclast should be stored in its original carton at controlled room temperature, protected from light, and should not be frozen.
Side effects
- Common side effects of Reclast may include fever, muscle or joint pain, or flu-like symptoms.
- Some individuals may experience headache, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea after receiving Reclast.
- Reclast may cause fatigue, dizziness, or weakness as potential side effects.
- Other potential side effects include bone pain, swelling, or redness at the infusion site.
- In rare cases, Reclast may lead to more serious side effects such as kidney problems, hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), or osteonecrosis of the jaw (a rare condition affecting the jaw bone).
- Patients should promptly report any unusual or severe side effects to their healthcare provider.
Precautions
- Inform your healthcare provider about any history of kidney problems, dental issues, or dental procedures before receiving Reclast.
- Stay well-hydrated before and after receiving Reclast to help reduce the risk of kidney problems.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before receiving Reclast, as the safety of the medication during pregnancy and lactation has not been established.
- Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Reclast.
- Be aware that Reclast may increase the risk of jaw problems, so practice good oral hygiene and avoid invasive dental procedures while receiving treatment.
- Report any signs of kidney problems, such as changes in urine output or swelling in the legs or feet, to your healthcare provider promptly.
- Keep Reclast out of reach of children and pets, and store it at controlled room temperature, protected from light.