Why is Boniva prescribed?

Boniva (Ibandronate) is 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 (end of menstrual periods). Ibandronate is in a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by preventing bone breakdown and increasing bone density (thickness), which reduces the chance of bone fractures.

How should this medicine be used?

Ibandronate comes as a tablet to take by mouth. The 2.5-mg tablet is usually taken once a day in the morning on an empty stomach and the 150-mg tablet is usually taken once a month in the morning on an empty stomach. The 150-mg tablet should be taken on the same date each month. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ibandronate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

This medicine can irritate your esophagus. If you think this medicine has started to damage your esophagus, stop taking this medicine and call your doctor. Some symptoms of damage to the esophagus are heartburn (either new or worse than usual), pain when swallowing, pain in the center of your chest, trouble swallowing, or feeling that food gets stuck on the way to your stomach.

This medicine could lower the amount of calcium in your blood. Call your doctor right away if you develop any signs of low calcium levels, such as muscle spasms or twitching, or numbness or tingling in your fingers, toes, or lips.

Stomach upset, diarrhea, pain in arms/legs, or mild flu-like symptoms (such as fatigue, muscle ache) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, new or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain, jaw pain, vision changes. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare which includes rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Can I have Dental treatments while I take ibandronate?

Ibandronate may cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ, a serious condition of the jaw bone), especially if you have dental surgery or treatment while you are taking the medication. A dentist should examine your teeth and perform any needed treatments, including cleaning or fixing ill-fitted dentures, before you start to take ibandronate. Be sure to brush your teeth and clean your mouth properly while you are taking ibandronate. Talk to your doctor before having any dental treatments while you are taking this medication.

How often is Boniva injection given?

The recommended dose of Boniva Injection for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis is 3 mg every 3 months administered intravenously over a period of 15 to 30 seconds.

Should I take supplements with Boniva?

Boniva should be taken at least 60 minutes before the first food or drink (other than water) of the day and before taking any oral medication or supplementation including calcium, antacids or vitamins. Plain water is the only drink that should be taken with BONIVA.

What are the ingredients in boniva?

One 150 mg film-coated tablet contains 168.75 mg ibandronate monosodium monohydrate, equivalent to 150 mg free acid. BONIVA also contains the following inactive ingredients: lactose monohydrate, povidone, microcrystalline cellulose, crospovidone, purified stearic acid, colloidal silicon dioxide, and purified water.