Product Details

Description

Learn About Actonel Medicine, Uses and Side Effects

Chemical Name RISEDRONATE (ris-ED-roe-nate)

ACTONEL belongs to a group of medications called bisphosphonates. This medication is used to prevent and treat osteoporosis (thinning of bone) in women after menopause. It works by altering the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. ACTONEL slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures. It may also be used in men and women to prevent and treat osteoporosis caused by long-term use of corticosteroids. ACTONEL is also used to treat Paget’s disease of the bone.

Directions

Take ACTONEL as exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Take the ACTONEL tablet first thing in the morning with a full glass (6-8 ounces) of water, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medication. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking an ACTONEL tablet.

After taking an ACTONEL tablet, do not lie down or recline, do not eat or drink anything other than plain water and do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least the first 30 minutes.

Cautions

ACTONEL can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus. You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication. You should not take this medication if you are allergic to risedronate, or if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.

To make sure patients can safely take ACTONEL, talk to your doctor if you have:

• low blood calcium (hypocalcemia)
• a vitamin D deficiency
• kidney disease
• an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus

Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using ACTONEL.

Side Effects

Serious side effects of ACTONEL may include:

• allergic reaction including hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• chest pain
• difficulty or pain when swallowing
• pain or burning under the ribs or in the back
• new or worsening heartburn
• severe or ongoing indigestion
• severe joint, bone, or muscle pain
• new or unusual pain in your thigh or hip
• jaw pain, numbness, or swelling

Less serious side effects of ACTONEL may include:

• flu symptoms
• muscle pain
• mild stomach pain or upset stomach
• diarrhea, constipation
• mild joint or back pain
• headache