Medications and Drugs
Brand Names: ActonelGeneric Name: risedronate (Pronunciation: rih SED ro nayt)
What is risedronate (Actonel)?Risedronate is in a group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Risedronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures. Risedronate is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in men and women. Risedronate is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone. Risedronate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. Actonel 30 mg oblong, white, imprinted with 30MG, RSN Actonel 35 mg octagonal, orange, orange, imprinted with RSN, 35 mg Actonel 5 mg oblong, yellow, imprinted with 5 mg, RSN What are the possible side effects of risedronate (Actonel)?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 risedronate and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
Less serious side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. What is the most important information I should know about risedronate (Actonel)?Do not take a risedronate tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Risedronate 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 30 minutes after taking this medication. Take the risedronate tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 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 a risedronate tablet. For at least the first 30 minutes after taking a risedronate 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 risedronate 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 pre-existing dental problems. Risedronate 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. (Page 1 of 3) |
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Treatment of Osteoporosis Introduction
Osteoporosis (or porous bone) is a disease in which bones become weak and, therefore, are more likely to break. Without prevention or treatment, osteoporosis can progress without pain or symptoms until a bone breaks (fractures).
- Fractures commonly occur at the hip, spine, and wrist.
- Osteoporosis is the underlying cause of more than 1.5 million fractures annually (300,000 hip fractures, approximately 700,000 vertebral fractures, 250,000 wrist fractures, and more than 300,000 fractures in other areas).
- In the United States, the estimated annual cost (including hospitals and nursing homes) for osteoporosis and related injuries is $14 billion.
- Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for 44 million Americans, 68% of whom are women.
- In the United States, 10 million people currently have osteoporosis, and another 34 million have low bone mass (weak or thin bones); these people are at i...
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