Actonel Consumer Drug Information

ACTONEL- RISEDRONATE

How should you take this medication?
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 the medication.

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.

Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
•black or tarry stools
•constant jaw pain, especially burning or cramping
•eye inflammation, pain, or vision change
•low levels of calcium in the blood (may cause symptoms like confusion, severe fatigue or weakness)
•pain or difficulty when swallowing
•skin rash, itching
•stomach pain
•swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
•bone pain
•diarrhea
•headache
•indigestion or stomach gas
•joint pain
•mild heartburn
•muscle pain
•nausea