Brand
name: Actonel
Pronounced: AK-ton-ell
Generic name: Risedronate
Why is Actonel prescribed?
Although our bones seem solid and stable, they actually undergo constant
renewal. Specialized cells called osteoclasts draw used calcium out
of the bones while other cells called osteoblasts replace it. Especially
after menopause, this process can get out of balance. Calcium starts
to leach out of the bones faster than it can be replaced, leading to
the brittle-bone disease called osteoporosis.
Actonel combats this problem by reducing the activity of the osteoclasts
and slowing the loss of calcium from the bones. It is prescribed for
postmenopausal women, both to prevent osteoporosis and to strengthen
the bones once the disease has begun. It is also used to prevent or
treat osteoporosis resulting from therapy with steroid medications,
and it is used in the treatment of Paget's disease, a condition in
which patches of bone become softened and enlarged.
Both Actonel and a similar drug called Fosamax are members of the
family of drugs called bisphosphonates.
Most important fact about Actonel
Actonel not only stops the bone loss of osteoporosis, but actually
reverses the disease and increases bone mineral density. As the bones
grow stronger, your chances of sustaining a fracture decline.
How should you take Actonel?
Three types of Actonel are available: a 5-milligram and 30-milligram
tablet that can be taken daily, and a 35-milligram tablet that's taken
once a week. The tablets should be taken at least 30 minutes before
the first food or drink of the day other than water. Take the pill
while standing or sitting in an upright position and wash it down with
a full 6 to 8 ounce glass of plain water (do not use coffee, tea, juice,
milk, or other dairy products). Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew
or suck on it. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking Actonel
.
Other treatment measures typically include weight-bearing exercise,
reduction of excessive smoking and drinking, and supplemental calcium
and vitamin D if you don't get enough in your diet. If you require
calcium supplements, or use any medications containing calcium, aluminum,
or magnesium, avoid taking them at the same time of day as Actonel.
--If you miss a dose...
If you realize that you missed a daily dose and have not yet had anything
to eat or drink, it's okay to take your medication. If you have already
eaten, skip the dose for that day and take your regular dose the following
morning.
If you forget to take a weekly dose, take 1 tablet on the morning
after you remember, then return to taking 1 tablet a week as originally
scheduled on the chosen day. Never take 2 tablets on the same day.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Actonel side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Actonel.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, anxiety, back pain, belching, bladder irritation, bone disorders
and pain, bronchitis, bursitis, cataracts, chest pain, colitis, constipation,
depression, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, dry eyes, eye infection,
flu-like symptoms, gas, headache, high blood pressure, infection, insomnia,
itching, joint disorders and pain, leg cramps, muscle pain, muscle weakness,
nausea, neck pain, nerve pain, pain, pneumonia, rash, ringing in ears, sinus
problems, sore throat, stomach bleeding, stuffy or runny nose, swelling,
tendon problems, tumor, ulcers, urinary tract infection, vertigo, vision
problems, weakness
Why should Actonel not be prescribed?
Your doctor will not prescribe Actonel if you have low calcium levels
in your blood or the drug gives you an allergic reaction. You also
cannot take Actonel if you are unable to stand or sit upright for at
least 30 minutes after taking the drug. In addition, the drug is not
recommended for people with severe kidney disease.
Special warnings about Actonel
The drugs in Actonel's family have been known to cause problems in
the canal between the mouth and the stomach (the esophagus). Among
the disorders that have been reported are esophageal irritation, difficulty
swallowing, esophageal ulcers, and gastric ulcers.
You can guard against such problems by taking Actonel with plenty
of water, swallowing the pill while standing or sitting upright, and
remaining upright for 30 minutes afterwards. If you experience difficulty
or pain on swallowing, chest pain, or heartburn that is severe or worse
than usual, stop taking Actonel and check with your doctor immediately.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Actonel
If Actonel is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Actonel with the following:
Antacids
Calcium supplements
Laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Actonel has caused harm when tested on pregnant animals. It is not
recommended during human pregnancy unless its benefits are judged to
outweigh the potential risks. If you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant, notify your doctor immediately.
If you are nursing a baby, you'll need to choose between discontinuing
nursing or discontinuing the drug.
Recommended dosage for Actonel
ADULTS
Overdosage
A large overdose of Actonel can dramatically reduce calcium levels
in the blood. Warning signs include a tingling sensation and spasms.
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
