Medications used in chemotherapy and hormone therapy that antagonize testosterone often result in accelerated bone loss in prostate cancer patients. Zoledronic acid (Zometa) belongs to a family of drugs called bisphosphonates that can slow the growth of cancer in bones, reduce pain, and prevent bone thinning and weakening (osteoporosis) in prostate cancer patients who undergo long-term chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Zoledronic acid is a useful addition to these therapies, particularly for patients with aggressive prostate cancer. Zoledronic acid is administered as an intravenous infusion. The procedures lasts a minimum of 15 minutes. Those who suffer from poor renal function may not be considered viable candidates for zoledronic acid because it is rapidly processed in the kidneys. Side effects of zoledronic acid include flu-like symptoms (particularly after the first infusion), fatigue, anemia, muscle aches, fever, and/or swelling in the feet or legs.
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