I recently stumbled upon a discussion about a little known, but potentially very serious side effect from Zometa (zoledronic acid), also known as a Bisphosphonate treatment.

The side effect, Anterior Uvetis, is an inflammatory condition of the iris of the eye. It is characterized any or all of these symptoms; pain, photophobia (sensitivity to light), excessive tearing, redness and decreased vision in one or both eyes. If untreated, it can lead to blindness!

If you experience any of these symptoms, whether or not you take any Bisphosphonate treatments, an urgent referral and thorough examination by an ophthalmologist, along with urgent treatment to control the inflammation is required.

If you experience Uvetis, discontinue the Bisphosphonate treatment and speak to your Oncologist about stopping the treatment.

Joel T Nowak MA, MSW