Reclast infusion side effects?

@annar
I too am facing so many painful side effects, such as all of my joints and bone pain, the list can go on, after 2 month and all my doctor says is sorry and just take pain killer and wait.

anahitaesmaili, two months is a long time to be suffering like that. I've heard that exercising actually helps the pain. If it prevents you from moving, it can be easy to become deconditioned. Some doctors are prescribing a five day steroid pack. Steroids are bad news for the bones, but I've read that it is less of a burden than continuing inflammation. Some Reclast users have been hospitalized where they are given IV steroids, which are understood to be more effective than the oral meds. Your doctor is right that you can't get the medication out of your system. Sorry you are experiencing this.

Has anyone gained a lot of weight from Reclast? I think I have asked before. On my 7 month after infusion and so far 10 pounds heavier. I think it’s going to get worse. I was 125 and 5 feet in February and now 140! I work out all of the time and now I do not want to go to the gym because how I look. I have given up. My doctors say there is nothing to do.

I have also gained 10 lbs and I am trying to get back to my usual weight and it is not easy. I am now 145 lbs 5’5” and have been 135 for a very very long time. I am eating less, drinking more water and exercise and walking more.

Thank you all for your comments, it's very helpful to know that others are going through the same thing. I have been experiencing almost all of the side effects others are talking about, and I received my IV 2 month ago, I was hoping the symptoms will go away eventually, but reading your comments, it seems like this could go on longer, so sad. I will report this to FDA also.

Hello,
I’m new to this forum.
I had a Reclast Infusion in May 2025. After a year dealing with knee pain issues my Dexa Scan results were terrible.
My endocrinologist had already suggested I’d need it, after doing some research I refused it for about 5 years.
Since the infusion, I’ve had digestive problems and pain on my left ribs. Strangely, on the first 24 hours after the infusion this is the exact place where I had intense sharp pain. It’s mostly during the night and in the morning.
Anyone experiencing the same?
Thank you!

tizza, I haven't taken Reclast, but have been following this thread, which may give you hope for the long run. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/reclast-side-effects/
Welcome to connect, Your post will elicit new answers as well. I think you'll hear from dannyanddebbie.

Good morning! I can relate to your on going issues since receiving your Reclast infusion. It has been 19 months since I received my Reclast infusion and I still have lasting results. Both shoulders, left foot, nausea at times and now the back sides of both legs. Some days are better than others. One can never really plan anything because one day I’m feeling better and the next day not so good. If I had this to do over again, I definitely would not have received the infusion. My endocrinologist continues to say my symptoms are not from the infusion but I think he needs his head checked. Don’t get me wrong, l am better than I was after the infusion and I go to physical therapy biweekly. I keep praying that things will improve. I find a little has to do with one’s mood; try to stay positive knowing that you are in control of your energy and emotions; it does help. My endocrinologist has sent me to various specialist doctors to see what the issue might be because he really don’t understand the medication, only my bone density! When I felt like I was just going in circles I stopped going to any doctors and just continue physical therapy and try my best to remain positive that this is not life long; I will outlive this pain! Lots of luck and try to stay positive!

@dannyandebbie I read so many statements from women on this site who experience side effects from various bone medications, while their doctors insist their symptoms are not related to the drug. I don't understand how the doctors can be so uninformed. A quick google search shows many sites, such as Drugs . com that include a long list of side effects.

This is from AI Assist: "Common side effects of Reclast (zoledronic acid) include flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills, headache, and bone, muscle, or joint pain. Serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, and unusual fractures, so it's important to monitor for any concerning symptoms and consult your doctor."

@dannyandebbie
Thank you so much for your reply and insight.
I have the same relationship with my endocrinologist. It would make sense for them to at least report these symptoms to the drug companies or the FDA for data purposes, but hey! Why bother?!
I have done an MRI of my back and ultrasound of abdomen. My PC is sending me to all these doctors to try and find out what’s happening… some do listen and agree that the Reclast infusion is not a good idea.
I do meditation and exercise daily. It’s just very uncomfortable and unusual the pain on my side ribs.
I hope you will keep getting better. And yes, positive thinking is the key. 🙏🏼