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Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid)

Prescription
Third-Generation Bisphosphonate
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

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
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; diluted solution stable 24h refrigerated

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (most potent IV bisphosphonate), osteolytic
Dose
0.1–0.25 mg/kg
Route
IV infusion
Frequency
q4 weeks
🐈

Cat

Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia and hypercalcemia of malignancy
Dose
0.1–0.25 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
q4 weeks
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. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; diluted solution stable 24h refrigerated

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Renal function (BUN, creatinine) at 48h and 7 days post-infusionSerum ionized calcium at 24h, 48h, 7 daysClinical pain responseHydration status pre-infusion
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. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Zometa
Reclast

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.
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. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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