What is this medicine?
IBANDRONATE (i BAN droh nate) slows calcium loss from bones. It is used to treat osteoporosis in women past the age of menopause.
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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:
-dental disease
-kidney disease
-low levels of calcium in the blood
-low levels of vitamin D in the blood
-an unusual or allergic reaction to ibandronate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
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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It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.
What may interact with this medicine?
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-teriparatide
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 except on your doctor's advice. Your doctor or health care professional may order blood tests and other tests to see how you are doing.
You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine, unless your doctor tells you not to. 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 or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions such as skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue
-changes in vision
-chest pain
-fever, flu-like symptoms
-heartburn or stomach pain
-jaw pain, especially after dental work
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-bone, muscle or joint pain
-diarrhea or constipation
-eye pain or itching
-headache
-irritation at site where injected
-nausea
Where should I keep my medicine?
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This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
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.