Actonel (Risedronate)

Do’s

• Take Actonel once a month as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Take it in the morning, after getting up and before your first food, beverage, or medication.
• Take it with a full glass of plain water (6-8 ounces).
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or suck on it.
• Stay upright (sitting, standing, walking) for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel.
• Wait at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel before eating, drinking anything but plain water, or taking any other medications.

Don'ts

• Don't take Actonel at bedtime or while still in bed.
• Don't take Actonel with any beverage other than plain water.
• Don't take Actonel with calcium or iron supplements, vitamins with minerals, antacids containing calcium/magnesium/aluminum, dairy products, or calcium-enriched juice for at least 30 minutes after taking it.
• Don't take Actonel with medications like quinapril, certain forms of didanosine, sucralfate, or bismuth subsalicylate for at least 30 minutes after taking it.
• Don't skip doses or stop taking Actonel without talking to your healthcare provider.

Choose a specific day of the month that works best for you and take Actonel on that day every month. Consider marking your calendar as a reminder. Discuss the risks and benefits of long-term Actonel use with your healthcare provider.

Common side effects of Actonel may include:

• Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, and muscle aches
• Trouble sleeping
• Skin rash
• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Headache
• Digestive problems, including indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea
• Dizziness

Serious side effects of Actonel:

• Increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain
• New or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain
• Jaw pain
• Eye/vision problems
• Irritation and ulcers in the stomach or esophagus

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Actonel,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider about any allergies, particularly to risedronate, other bisphosphonates, or any other medications.

Inform your healthcare provider  of your medical history, especially if you have:

• Esophageal problems (heartburn, narrowing, difficulty swallowing)
• Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia)
• Difficulty sitting or standing upright for 30 minutes
• Stomach/intestinal disorders (ulcers)
• Severe kidney disease

Actonel may increase the risk of jawbone problems. Your healthcare provider will examine your mouth before starting this medication. Tell your dentist you are taking Actonel before any dental work.

Practice good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental checkups to minimize jawbone problems. Report any jaw pain to your healthcare provider immediately.

Before any surgery (especially dental), disclose Actonel use and all other medications you take. You might need to stop taking Actonel beforehand. Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.

Do not take Actonel if pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. It is unknown if Actonel passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.