Details

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Manufacturer
Actavis
 
Contents
Risedronate Na
 
Indication
Actonel is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Fosamax slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.
 
Instruction
Take Actonel exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Actonel tablets are taken either once each day or once each week.

Take the Actonel tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine. If you take a Actonel tablet only once a week, take it on the same day each week and always first thing in the morning.

Take each Actonel tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking a tablet. Do not crush, chew, or suck the Actonel tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

After taking a Actonel tablet, carefully follow these instructions:
Do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel.
Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water.
Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel. It may be best to take your other medicines at a different time of the day. Talk with your doctor about the best dosing schedule for your other medicines.

To be sure Actonel is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. Visit your doctor regularly.

If you need to have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist ahead of time that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Actonel is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
If you take Fosamax tablets once daily: If you forget to take this medicine first thing in the morning, do not take it later in the day. Wait until the following morning to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take two (2) tablets in one day.

If you take Actonel tablets once a week: If you forget to take Actonel on your scheduled day, take it first thing in the morning on the day after you remember the missed dose. Then return to your regular weekly schedule on your chosen dose day. Do not take two (2) tablets in one day.
 
 
Drug interaction
Intravenous ranitidine (Zantac) increases blood levels of Risedronate. Antacids, Ca2+-supplements, or medicines that contain calcium, aluminum, magnesium reduce absorption of Actonel. Aspirin or other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) co-administered with Actonel may increase risk of stomach and intestinal side effects.