Risedronate



ActonelŽ







Risedronate

(ris ED roe nate)

U.S. Brand Names
ActonelŽ
Canadian Brand Names
ActonelŽ
Mexican Brand Names
ActonelŽ
Pharmacologic Category
Bisphosphonate Derivative
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to risedronate or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have any of the following conditions: Low calcium levels, narrowing of the esophagus (swallowing tube), poor kidney function, slow movement through the esophagus, or unable to stand or sit for 30 minutes after taking medicine.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to prevent or treat osteoporosis.
  • This medicine is used to treat Paget's disease.
How does it work?
  • Risedronate reduces bone destruction.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this medicine on an empty stomach before breakfast.
  • Take this medicine with a full glass of water at least 30 minutes before the first food, drink, or medicine of the day.
  • Do not drink or eat for at least 30 minutes after taking this medicine.
  • Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this medicine. This prevents irritation to the esophagus (swallowing tube).
  • Swallow tablet whole. Do not chew, break, or crush.
  • This medicine works best when used with calcium/vitamin D supplements and weight-bearing exercises like walking or physical therapy.
  • Follow diet plan and exercise program as recommended by healthcare provider.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
  • Do not change dose or stop medicine. Talk with healthcare provider.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have gastrointestinal disease, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • If you have PKU, talk with healthcare provider. Some products do contain phenylalanine.
  • Tell dentists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers that you use this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Flu-like symptoms. These include headache, weakness, fever, shakes, aches, pains, and sweating. Mild pain medicine may help.
  • Headache.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Constipation. More liquids, regular exercise, or a fiber-containing diet may help. Talk with healthcare provider about a stool softener or laxative.
  • Bone pain.
  • Jaw bone damage can rarely occur.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Bone density test.
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Jaw pain.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: