Actonel

[Drug Name]: risedronate

[Trade Name]: Actonel

[R&D Company]: French Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceutical Group

[Indications]: Prevent bone loss caused by aromatase inhibitors and treat osteoporosis.

[Model specifications]: 35MG/4 tablets

[Usage]

Risedronate sodium is used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Osteoporosis makes bones thinner and more susceptible to fractures. The chance of developing osteoporosis increases as you age, after menopause, or if you take corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for a long time.

This medication helps keep bones strong by slowing bone loss and reducing the risk of fractures (fractures). Risedronate belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates.

[How to use Actonel 150 mg Tablet]

Read the Medication Guide and the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using risedronate and each time you get a refill. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure you absorb as much of the medicine as possible and reduce the risk of injury to your esophagus. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once a month. Take it as soon as you wake up for the day and before your first food, drink, or other medication. Do not take before bed or while lying in bed.

Take this medication with a full glass of water (6 to 8 ounces or 180 to 240 milliliters). Do not consume with any other beverage. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or suck it. Then stay completely upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes before lying down after you have eaten your first meal. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking lidronic acid before eating or drinking anything other than plain water or taking other medications by mouth.

Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins containing minerals, antacids containing calcium/magnesium/aluminum, dairy products (such as milk, yogurt), and calcium-rich juices may interfere with risedronate absorption. Medications such as quinapril, didanosine (chewable/dispersible tablets or pediatric oral solution), sucralfate, and some forms of bismuth salicylic acid may also interfere with absorption. Do not take these products for at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Choose the month that best suits your plan. Remember to take it on the same day every month. It may be helpful to mark your calendar with reminders. Discuss the risks and benefits of long-term use of this medication with your doctor.

[Side Effects]

Stomach discomfort may occur. Although rare, mild flu-like symptoms (such as fever, tiredness, muscle aches) may appear within a few days of your first monthly dose, they usually last less than a week. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

1. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people who use this drug do not have serious side effects.

2. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, new or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain, jaw pain, eye/vision problems.

3. This drug may rarely cause irritation and ulcers in your stomach or esophagus. Get medical help right away if any of the following serious side effects occur: new/severe/worrying heartburn, chest pain, difficulty or painful swallowing, severe stomach/abdominal pain, black/tar-like stools, vomitus that looks like coffee grounds.

4. Very serious allergic reactions to this drug are rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

[Precautions]

Before taking risedronate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it. or other bisphosphonates (such as alendronate); or if you have other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Contact your pharmacist for more details.

1. Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially: esophageal problems (such as heartburn, achalasia that narrows the esophagus), difficulty or pain in swallowing, low levels of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia), inability to sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes, stomach/intestinal disease (such as ulcers), severe kidney disease.

2. Some people taking restronate may have serious jaw bone problems. Before you start taking this medication, your doctor should check your mouth. Before having any dental work done, tell your dentist that you are taking this medication. To prevent jawbone problems, get regular dental checkups and learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have pain in your jaw, tell your doctor or dentist right away.

3. Before having any surgery (especially dental surgery), tell your doctor and dentist about this drug and all other products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your doctor or dentist may tell you to stop taking ribidronate before surgery. Ask for specific instructions about stopping or starting this medication.

4. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future, you are advised to be cautious. This medication may stay in your body for years. Its effects on the unborn baby are unknown. Before starting treatment with risedronate, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.