Hi Celeste
I was on Zometa for just over a year, now on Bondronat. The only side effect I had was after my first infusion of Zometa - all the bones in my body ached - it was awful and I was in tears but then just having panadol helped. I never had that reaction again with any of my subsequent infusions.
It usually took around 1/2 an hour for my treatment, which I had every 28 days. I never paid anything for Zometa at the public hospital.
You should go and see a dentist before you start (if you can) just so that they can check your teeth/gums before you start.
I think the worst thing about Zometa was having to find a vein to insert the canula! Apart from that it really wasn't an issue.
Good luck.
Amy x