Thank you @mayblin. This is very helpful and addresses my questions and validates @gently's speculation!

I liked the distinction between the acute phase reaction and longer term effects. I wonder why Benadryl is not also recommended-? I had no idea Claritin could be potent against inflammation. I had 5 days of substantial fever and a few more with lower fever after my infusion, which was low dose. I only used Tylenol.

I have systemic lupus (and very positive scleroderma antibodies) and was concerned about the possibility of a rise in inflammatory cytokines on Reclast. The article mentiones acute rise in cytokines but not chronic and doesn't suggest a cause for longer term pain.

I did Reclast June and Sept. of this year. I already had facial pain and numbness but noise triggers have become worse, the pain has become worse, and I have new jaw pain resembling TMJ. My rheumatologist responded that this could rarely be autoimmune inflammation.

Doctors all want me on steroids but I have afib and cannot do steroids. Perhaps Claritin will help me even now. I can only take Tylenol due to kidney issues. The pain and numbness are becoming a real issue, probably from my neck (stenosis, radiculopathy etc.) and I am not necessarily blaming Reclast at all- just covering my bases.

Again thanks @mayblin - and @gently!