Reclast

Reclast is a drug used for the treatment of Paget's disease of the bone, as well as osteoporosis in certain people. It is a bisphosphonate and works by binding to cells in bones, slowing down the rate at which they break down. It can also help the body to rebuild bone at a more normal rate. Reclast comes in injectable form and is administered by your healthcare provider. Side effects include flu-like symptoms, dizziness, and headaches.

Reclast for Paget's Disease

What Is Reclast?

Reclast^® (zoledronic acid) is a prescription medication used for the following purposes:

Treating Paget's disease of the bone
Preventing and treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
Treating osteoporosis in men
Preventing and treating osteoporosis due to glucocorticoid steroid medications (such as prednisone).

For osteoporosis prevention and treatment, the medication is taken as a single dose per year, given by IV (intravenously).

(Click Reclast Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes Reclast?

It is made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.

How Does It Work?

Reclast belongs to a group of medications known as bisphosphonates. The drug binds to certain cells in bones and slows down the rate at which they break down, which helps to strengthen bone in people with osteoporosis. Reclast works similarly for people with Paget's disease of the bone, a condition involving rapid breakdown of bone combined with abnormal reformation of bone. The abnormally reformed bone is weaker than normal bone. Bisphosphonates such as Reclast can help slow the breakdown of bone, which helps the body to build bone more normally.

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