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Risedronate |
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What is Risedronate and why is it prescribed? Risedronate reduces the activity of the osteoclasts and slows the loss of calcium from the bones. Risedronate is prescribed for postmenopausal women, both to prevent osteoporosis and to strengthen the bones once the disease has begun. Risedronate 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. Risedronate is a member of the family of drugs called bisphosphonates. Risedronate 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 Risedronate? Follow your doctors directions for taking Risedronate. Two types of Risedronate are available, a 5-milligram tablet that's 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. Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew or suck on it. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking Risedronate. 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 Risedronate. 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 two tablets on the same day. Store Risedronate at room temperature. Are there any Risedronate side effects? Risedronate side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Risedronate 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, and weakness. Less common Risedronate side effects may include anemia, angina, burning or prickly sensation, dental problems, ear infection, gastrointestinal distress, heart problems, hernia, rectal problems, skin cancer, stomach inflammation, and tight muscles. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Risedronate? If Risedronate is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Risedronate with Antacids, Calcium supplements, or Laxatives (such as Milk of Magnesia). Are there any special warnings about Risedronate? The drugs in Risedronate's family have been known to cause problems in the canal between the mouth and the stomach. 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 Risedronate 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 Risedronate and check with your doctor immediately. |
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