What is this medicine?
RISEDRONATE (ris ED roe nate) slows calcium loss from the bone. It helps to make normal healthy bone and to slow bone loss in people with Paget's disease and osteoporosis. It may also be used in others at risk for bone loss.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-esophageal, stomach, or intestinal problems, like acid reflux or GERD
-dental disease
-kidney disease
-low blood calcium
-problems sitting or standing for 30 minutes
-trouble swallowing
-an unusual or allergic reaction to risedronate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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You must take this medicine exactly as directly or you will lower the amount of the medicine that you absorb into your body or you may cause yourself harm. Take this medicine by mouth first thing in the morning, after you are up for the day. Do not eat or drink anything before you take this medicine. Swallow the tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water. Do not take this medicine with any other drink. Do not chew, crush, or let the tablet dissolve in your mouth. After taking this medicine, do not eat breakfast, drink, or take any other medicines or vitamins for at least 30 minutes. Stand or sit up for at least 30 minutes after you take this medicine; do not lie down. Take this medicine on the same day every week. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, take the dose on the morning after you remember. Then take your next dose on your regular day of the week. Never take 2 tablets on the same day. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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-aluminum hydroxide
-antacids
-aspirin
-calcium supplements
-drugs for inflammation like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others
-iron supplements
-magnesium supplements
-vitamins with minerals
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medicine. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Your doctor may order blood tests or other tests to see how you are doing.
You should make sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.
Some people who take this medicine have severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain. This medicine may also increase your risk for a broken thigh bone. Tell your doctor right away if you have pain in your upper leg or groin. Tell your doctor if you have any pain that does not go away or that gets worse.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions such as skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue
-black or tarry stools
-changes in vision
-heartburn or stomach pain
-jaw pain, especially after dental work
-pain or difficulty when swallowing
-redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
-bone, muscle, or joint pain
-changes in taste
-diarrhea or constipation
-eye pain or itching
-headache
-nausea or vomiting
-stomach gas or fullness
Where should I keep my medicine?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
Information on use before, during and after pregnancy.
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FIRST Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
SECOND Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
THIRD Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Lactation
Caution - Not enough information is available to rule out harm to infants when this drug is taken by nursing mothers.
