Why is Actonel prescribed?

Risedronate tablets and delayed-release (long-acting tablets) are used to prevent and treat osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who have undergone menopause (''change of life,'' end of menstrual periods). Risedronate tablets are also used to treat osteoporosis in men, and in men and women who are taking glucocorticoids (a type of corticosteroid medication that may cause osteoporosis). Risedronate tablets are also used to treat Paget's disease of bone (a condition in which the bones are soft and weak and may be deformed, painful, or easily broken). Risedronate is in a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by preventing bone breakdown and increasing bone density (thickness). Risedronate (Generic) is available in addition to the brand name.

How is Actonel most effectively taken?

Use Actonel (risedronate) as ordered by your doctor. Read all the information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Follow how to take Actonel (risedronate tablets) as you have been told by your doctor. Do not use more than you were told to use.
• Take with plain water only. Avoid taking with mineral water, milk, or other drinks.
• Swallow whole. Do not chew, break, or crush.
• Do not suck on this product.
• To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses.
• Keep taking Actonel (risedronate tablets) as you have been told by your doctor or other health care provider, even if you feel well.
• Take on an empty stomach before breakfast.
• Take with a full glass of water.
• Take at least 30 minutes before the first food, drink, or drugs of the day.
• Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel (risedronate tablets) and until you eat your first food of the day.

Before taking Actonel,

• tell your doctor if you are allergic to it; or to other bisphosphonates or if you have any other drug allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
• tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
  • esophagus problems (such as heartburn)
  • difficult or painful swallowing
  • hypocalcemia
  • inability to sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes
  • stomach/intestinal disorders (such as ulcers)
  • severe kidney disease

Risedronate may cause side effects including but not limited to:

• nausea
• burping
• dry mouth
• diarrhea, constipation, gas
• headache
• dizziness or weakness
• leg cramps
• back pain
• frequent or urgent need to urinate
• painful urination

Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away. Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately before you take any more risedronate:

• difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
• new or worsening heartburn
• chest pain
• itching, rash, hives, blisters on the skin, swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• difficulty breathing
• hoarseness
• muscle spasms, twitching, or cramps
• swollen, red, or painful eyes
• painful or swollen gums
• loosening of the teeth
• dull, aching pain in the hips, groin, or thighs

Risedronate may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. Taking a bisphosphonate medication such as risedronate for osteoporosis may increase the risk that you will break your thigh bone(s). You may feel pain in your hips, groin, or thighs for several weeks or months before the bone(s) break, and you may find that one or both of your thigh bones have broken even though you have not fallen or experienced other trauma. It is unusual for the thigh bone to break in healthy people, but people who have osteoporosis may break this bone even if they do not take risedronate. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking risedronate.

Why is Actonel prescribed?

This medication is used to treat Paget's disease and to prevent or treat soft, brittle bones

What if I miss a dose of Actonel?

• Do not take it later in the day. Take the missed dose the next morning after you think about it and then go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses on the same day.