Generic Name : Risedronate sodium
Brand Names : Actonel
Actonel (risedronate sodium) is prescribed to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis). Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break (fracture) more easily. The chance of developing osteoporosis increases as the age grows, after menopause, or if the patient is taking corticosteroid medications (e.g., prednisone) for long periods of time. This medication works by slowing bone loss to help maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of fractures. Risedronate belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates.
Actonel (Risedronate sodium) is indicated to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis).
The patient should follow the instructions very closely to maximize the amount of drug absorbed and reduce the risk of injury to the esophagus. This medication should be taken by mouth, usually once a day or as directed by the doctor. The patient should take it after getting up for the day and before taking the first food, beverage or other medication. The patient should not take it at bedtime or while still in bed.this medication should be taken with a full glass (6-8 ounces or 180-240 milliliters) of plain water.
It should not be taken with any other beverage. The patient should not chew or suck on it. The patient should wait at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate before eating or drinking anything other than plain water and before taking any other medication by mouth. Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins with minerals, antacids containing calcium/magnesium/aluminum, dairy products (e.g., milk, yogurt), and calcium-enriched juice may interfere with absorption of risedronate. Medications such as quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), sucralfate, and bismuth subsalicylate may also interfere with absorption. The patient should not take these products for at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate.
This medication should be used regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. This medication should be taken at the same time in the morning.
This medication may lead to upset stomach or headache. If any of these effects persist or worsen, the doctor should be consulted promptly. Consultation should be done with the doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: bone/joint/muscle pain, jaw pain, eye/vision problems, new/severe/worsening heartburn, chest pain, difficult or painful swallowing, severe stomach/abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Before using this medication, the doctor or pharmacist should be told about the medical history of the patient, especially of: esophagus problems (e.g., esophageal stricture), difficult or painful swallowing, kidney problems, stomach/intestinal disorders (e.g., ulcers).
The patient should check the labels on all the medicines because they may contain aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids such as ibuprofen, naproxen) that could cause stomach irritation/ulcers. The pharmacist should be consulted about the safe use of those products. Low-dose aspirin, as prescribed by the doctor for specific medical reasons such as heart attack or stroke prevention (usually these dosages are 81-325 milligrams per day), should be continued. This medication may affect the results of certain lab tests (bone-imaging agents). The patient should tell the doctor or laboratory personnel while taking this medication.
In case of an overdose, the patient should contact the local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Before taking Risedronate, proper consultation should be done with the doctor or pharmacist if: