Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Boniva

Generic Name: ibandronate (Pronunciation: eye BAN dro nate)

• What is ibandronate (Boniva)?
• What are the possible side effects of ibandronate (Boniva)?
• What is the most important information I should know about ibandronate (Boniva)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using ibandronate (Boniva)?
• How should I use ibandronate (Boniva)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Boniva)?
• What happens if I overdose (Boniva)?
• What should I avoid while taking ibandronate (Boniva)?
• What other drugs will affect ibandronate (Boniva)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is ibandronate (Boniva)?

Ibandronate is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Ibandronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.

Ibandronate is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in women after menopause.

Ibandronate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Boniva 150 mg

oblong, white, imprinted with BNVA, 150

Boniva 2.5 mg

oblong, white, imprinted with IT, L3

What are the possible side effects of ibandronate (Boniva)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using ibandronate and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• chest pain;
• difficulty or pain when swallowing;
• pain or burning under the ribs or in the back;
• new or worsening heartburn;
• severe joint, bone, or muscle pain; or
• jaw pain, numbness, or swelling.

Less serious side effects may include:

• back pain, headache;
• redness or swelling of your eyes;
• diarrhea;
• flu symptoms;
• redness or swelling where the medicine was injected;
• nausea or upset stomach; or
• pain in your arms or legs.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about ibandronate (Boniva)?

Do not take an ibandronate tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least one full hour. Ibandronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 60 minutes after taking this medication.

Take the ibandronate tablet first thing in the morning, at least 1 hour (60 minutes) before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine.

Take each dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking an ibandronate tablet.

For at least the first 60 minutes after taking an ibandronate 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.

Some people using medicines similar to ibandronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre-existing dental problems.

Ibandronate is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.