Early and Late Severe and Rare Adverse Events Associated with Zoledronic Acid in Cancer Patients: A Seven-Case Series and Literature Review
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Zoledronic acid (ZA) is a third-generation nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate widely used in oncology for the prevention of skeletal-related events (SREs) in patients with bone metastases, the treatment of hypercalcemia of malignancy, and the prevention of cancer treatment-induced bone loss (CTIBL). Although ZA has demonstrated substantial efficacy and an overall favorable safety profile, uncommon but potentially severe adverse events may occur, ranging from acute metabolic and immune-mediated reactions to delayed complications such as medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). We report a seven-case series of clinically significant early and late ZA-related adverse events observed in routine oncology practice and compare our findings with the available literature to emphasize their clinical presentation, management, and preventive strategies.
Institution: Institut National d'Oncologie
Language: English
Topic: Bone health and treatments
Subfield: Oncology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7202099298