Service provided by Dr Karen Oswald.
Acasta is an annual intravenous infusion used to treat osteoporosis and Paget’s disease. A similar medication can be given as a tablet, but sometimes the intravenous method is the most suitable.
Prior to making an appointment for your infusion, you should visit your dentist to check if you may require tooth extraction and to assess your dental hygiene.
Your doctor will also check your kidney function, calcium levels and vitamin D status (taking a supplement for at least a week prior is advisable)
On the day:
- Omit fluid tablets if you usually take them
- Increase oral fluids such as water and tea
- Take 2 paracetamol
The infusion will take approximately 15-30 minutes, and we will monitor you for 30 minutes afterwards
Side effects:
Up to 30% of people may experience flu-like symptoms (fever, headaches and muscle aches) which can occur within hours of the treatment. This is much less likely on subsequent treatments, and is managed by regular paracetamol
Later effects include :
- Low calcium
- Inflammatory eye disorders eg conjunctivitis
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw – this is a rare side effect, usually related to dental extraction and poor dental hygiene. Your dentist will be well aware if this condition
Consent Form
If you are having this procedure please fill out this consent form prior to your appointment.
