Actonel

Drug Uses
Actonel (Risedronate) is a biphosphonate that is used to prevent osteoporosis in certain patients. The drug works by preventing bone loss.

How it is taken
The best way to take is as recommended by your doctor. You may also check dosage instructions on the product label.
Actonel comes in a tablet form that is to be taken whole without being crushed or chewed with a full glass of plain water. Avoid taking it with mineral water, coffee, tea, milk, or juice. The drug is to be taken twice a month on consecutive days.
Continue to take for the complete duration of treatment even if you find relief in a few days. If you have any further doubts, then contact your health care provider for more information.

Drug Class & Mechanism
Actonel is a biphosphonate that works by slowing bone loss.

Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage
Store it at room temperature (between between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions
You must avoid using Actonel if you are allergic to any ingredient in it. People who are unable to sit upright for at least 30 minutes, or who have severe kidney problems or low blood calcium must also consult their health care provider before using Actonel.

Important information
Actonel is known to cause dizziness which may get aggravated if you consume alcohol or certain medications while taking the drug. So use it with caution until you know how your body reacts to the drug.
You must talk to your doctor before you drink, smoke or consume tobacco while on treatment with Actonel.
A good diet and exercise program is recommended to enhance treatment. Your doctor may also recommend a calcium and vitamin D supplement.
Weight bearing exercises are ideal to prevent bone loss. Speak to your doctor about them.
Good dental care is a must while using Actonel. So ensure that you brush, floss and visit your dentist periodically.
Talk to your doctor before you receive any medical care, dental or emergency care or surgery.
Periodic lab tests may be recommended to check bone density and blood calcium levels. Ensure that you do not miss out on any of these.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Accupril. It is unknown whether Accupril is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include back pain, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, gas, headache, joint pain, mild stomach pain and nausea. You may contact your doctor if these side effects become bothersome.
Severe side effects such as black, tarry or bloody stools, difficult or painful swallowing, difficult or painful swallowing, painful or difficult urination, chest pain, coughing or vomiting blood, sensitivity to light, severe pain in the bone, muscle or joints, consistently severe stomach pain or sore throat, swelling of the arms and legs, vision changes and unusual pain or redness of the eye and severe heartburn may also occur. Seek medical attention immediately if these occur.