Chemical Name: RISEDRONATE (ris-ED-roe-nate)
Common uses
Actonel is a bisphosphonate used to treat Paget's disease.
Prior to Use
Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. If you are taking any of the following, your dose or condition may need regular supervision: aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Instructions for Use
Follow the directions for taking Actonel provided by your physician. Swallow whole Do not break, crush, chew, or suck on the tablet before swallowing. Take Actonel with 6 to 8 ounces of plain water only the first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine unless otherwise directed by your physician. If your physician instructs you to take Actonel differently, be sure to follow all instructions for eating, drinking, and taking antacids or other medicine. Actonel is effective only if taken on an empty stomach. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel. Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, or antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum may interfere with the absorption of Actonel. Take these products or any other medicines at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate. Store Actonel at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Take Actonel regularly as directed by your physician to receive the most benefit from it. Should you skip or forget a dose of Actonel, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Never take more than one dose at the same time.
Warnings
It is important to have enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Ask your physician, nurse, or pharmacist if you have questions about your diet or about taking dietary supplements with calcium or vitamin d. keep all physician and laboratory appointments while you are using Actonel. If you have any type of surgery and cannot sit or stand upright following surgery, check with your physician before continuing Actonel. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, consult your pharmacist or physician . This includes any medicines which contain aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your physician the benefits and risks of using Actonel during pregnancy. The effects of Actonel on breast milk is not known. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Actonel, consult your pharmacist or physician to discuss the risks to your baby.
Potential Side Effects
Side effects you may experience while using Actonel include fever, chills, stomach pain, joint pain, headache, nausea, or diarrhea. Consult your physician if they do not go away or if they bring you difficulties. Contact your physician immediately if you experience painful swallowing or severe heartburn. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.
In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed.
Additional information
Non-drug therapy may also help prevent bone loss. Consult your physician about a weight-bearing exercise plan or other lifestyle changes that may be helpful. Follow all diet recommendations for adequate daily calcium and vitamin D intake. Do not let anyone else use Actonel. Do not take Actonel to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children. If using Actonel for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
