ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/zoledronic-acid
US brand names:Zometa, Reclast
Zoledronic Acid is dosed at 0.1–0.25 mg/kg IV once q28 days in dogs, per Garrett RL, Selmic LE, Kamerer TM, Fan TM. Accelerated Radiation Therapy and Zoledronate for Osteosarcoma Bone Pain. Presented at: American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum; 2014. | Schenk A, Lux C, Lane J, Martin O. Evaluation of Zoledronate as Treatment for Hypercalcemia in Four Dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2018;54(6):e54604. | Brewer DJ, Macfarlane M, O'Connell E, Bacon NJ. Toxicity of zoledronic acid after intravenous administration: A retrospective study of 95 dogs. J Vet Intern Med. 2022;36(1):253-258. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1357 (2026-08-01).. Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Most potent bisphosphonate available. Inhibits farnesyl diphosphate synthase in mevalonate pathway disrupting osteoclast function.
Single IV infusion. Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy and bone metastases in dogs. Nephrotoxic — ensure adequate hydration. Jaw osteonecrosis rare. Acute phase reaction (fever, myalgia).
Species references:All Dog (Domestic) drugs
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| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | IV | 0.1–0.25 mg/kg | once q28 days | Moderate | Garrett RL, Selmic LE, Kamerer TM, Fan TM. Accelerated Radiation Therapy and Zoledronate for Osteosarcoma Bone Pain. Presented at: American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum; 2014. | Schenk A, Lux C, Lane J, Martin O. Evaluation of Zoledronate as Treatment for Hypercalcemia in Four Dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2018;54(6):e54604. | Brewer DJ, Macfarlane M, O'Connell E, Bacon NJ. Toxicity of zoledronic acid after intravenous administration: A retrospective study of 95 dogs. J Vet Intern Med. 2022;36(1):253-258. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1357 (2026-08-01). |
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