Key takeaways
Reclast (zoledronic acid) and Risedronate (Actonel) are both bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis, but they have some key differences. Reclast is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion once a year or every two years, while Risedronate is taken orally with various dosing options, including daily, weekly, or monthly. Reclast is typically administered in a clinic or provider's office, whereas Risedronate can be taken at home. Reclast is also used for Paget's disease and osteoporosis caused by long-term corticosteroid use, similar to Risedronate. Both medications can cause side effects like muscle pain, joint pain, and headache, but Risedronate may cause esophagus irritation, which is not a side effect expected with Reclast. Both medications can lead to severe jaw problems and low calcium levels, but Reclast has a higher risk of kidney damage. Reclast is available in both brand and generic forms, while Risedronate is available as a lower-cost generic and also comes in a delayed-release form called Atelvia.
