FDA: Novartis Corporation's Osteoporosis Drug Reclast Raises Kidney Failure Risk

The FDA warns that the osteoporosis drug Reclast (zoledronic acid) raises the risk of kidney failure. The warning is targeted at patients who already suffer from kidney impairment. It's also aimed at those who are taking potentially kidney-damaging (nephrotoxic) medications or diuretics at the same time as Reclast. According to the new warning, Reclast-induced kidney failure can also occur among severely dehydrated patients. Older patients with kidney impairment are at heightened risk of kidney failure. The FDA warning says that kidney failure is a rare but serious complication for at-risk patients taking Reclast. The drug was approved in April 2007.

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