Most potent bisphosphonate available. Nitrogen-containing imidazole bisphosphonate that inhibits farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase in osteoclasts >10,000x more potently than first-gen bisphosphonates. Single IV infusion provides months of bone resorption inhibition.
At a glance
Class
Third-Generation Bisphosphonate
Storage
Store at room temperature; diluted solution stable 24h refrigerated
Dosing
Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (most potent IV bisphosphonate), osteolytic
Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia and hypercalcemia of malignancy
Safety
Renal function (BUN, creatinine) at 48h and 7 days post-infusionSerum ionized calcium at 24h, 48h, 7 daysClinical pain responseHydration status pre-infusion
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid)?
Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) is a third-generation bisphosphonate used in pets. Most potent bisphosphonate available. Nitrogen-containing imidazole bisphosphonate that inhibits farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase in osteoclasts >10,000x more potently than first-gen bisphosphonates. Single IV infusion provides months of bone resorption inhibition.
›What is Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) used for in pets?
Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (most potent IV bisphosphonate), osteolytic; Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia and hypercalcemia of malignancy.
›What is the Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) is typically dosed as follows — Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (most potent IV bisphosphonate), osteolytic: 0.1–0.25 mg/kg IV infusion q4 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) dose for cats?
For cats, Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) is typically dosed as follows — Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia and hypercalcemia of malignancy: 0.1–0.25 mg/kg IV q4 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) need a prescription?
Yes. Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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