Boniva (Ibandronate sodium)

Do's 

• Read the medication guide and patient information leaflet provided by the pharmacist before starting Boniva. 
• Follow the instructions closely to ensure optimal drug absorption and reduce the risk of injury to the esophagus. 
• Consult with a healthcare provider if there are any questions. 
• Take Boniva tablets by mouth once a month on the same date each month. 
• Choose a day each month that best fits your schedule to take Boniva tablets. 
• Take Boniva after getting up for the day, at least 60 minutes before consuming any food, beverage, or other medication. 
• Take the tablet whole with a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 ounces/180 to 240 milliliters). 
• Stay fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 60 minutes after taking the tablet. 
• Wait at least 60 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than plain water or taking any other medication by mouth. 
• Use Boniva regularly to obtain the most benefit from it. 
• Remember to take the tablets on the same day each month or receive the injection every 3 months. 
• Mark a calendar as a reminder if needed. 
• Discuss with a doctor regarding the long-term use of this medication to understand the risks and benefits. 
• Continue taking other medications for your condition as directed by your healthcare provider. 

Don’t 

• Avoid lying down until after the first food of the day after taking Boniva. 
• Don't take Boniva tablets at bedtime or while still in bed. 
• Don't take Boniva tablets with any other beverages. 
• Don’t chew, suck, or keep the tablet in your mouth to melt. 
• Don't take certain medications, substances, or foods that may interfere with the absorption of Boniva for at least 60 minutes after taking it, including quinapril, certain forms of didanosine, sucralfate, bismuth subsalicylate, calcium or iron supplements, vitamins with minerals, antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum, dairy products, mineral water, and calcium-enriched juice. 

Boniva is also available in injection form, given by injection into a vein over 15-30 seconds by a healthcare provider. It is usually given once every 3 months. 

Mild Side Effects: 

• Heartburn
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Back, muscle, or joint pain
• Headache
• Flu-like symptoms
• Injection-site reactions, such as redness or swelling around the injection site for individuals receiving Boniva injections

These side effects are typically associated with the first dose, generally of short duration, and are often mild or moderate in intensity.

Discuss any concerns about side effects with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized guidance and address any questions or uncertainties about the use of Boniva.

Boniva may interact with other drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. 

When administering Boniva injection, it must be done intravenously by a healthcare provider. Care must be taken to avoid intra-arterial or paravenous administration, as this could lead to tissue damage. Appropriate medical support and monitoring measures should be readily available when Boniva injection is administered. If severe hypersensitivity/allergic reactions occur, immediate discontinuation of the injection and initiation of appropriate treatment is necessary.

Individuals with low blood calcium levels before starting Boniva may experience worsening of this condition during treatment. Address low blood calcium levels before starting Boniva.

Discuss these warnings and precautions with a healthcare provider before starting Boniva to ensure its safe and appropriate use.