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Other drug names: | A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9 |
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Risedronate is in a class of drugs called bisphosphonates that are used to treat and prevent osteoporosis (bone weakening) in postmenopausal women.
Risedronate is also taken by men and women who are starting or continuing to take medications such as prednisone that may cause osteoporosis. It is also used to treat Paget's disease.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Risedronate comes as a tablet to take by mouth once a day. It is important to take risedronate 30 minutes or more before the first food or drink of the day other than water. Take risedronate in an upright position (sitting or standing) with a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 ounces). Do not take risedronate with mineral water, coffee, orange juice, milk, or other dairy products. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate before you eat, drink, or take other medications. Do not suck or chew the tablet; swallow the tablet whole. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking risedronate. Standing or sitting upright helps you get the full dose and decreases heartburn and the risk of injury to your esophagus. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take risedronate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Risedronate helps treat and prevent osteoporosis and Paget's disease but does not cure them. Continue to take risedronate even if you feel well. Do not stop taking risedronate without talking to your doctor.
Risedronate also is used occasionally to prevent bone loss in men. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
Before taking risedronate,
It is important you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking risedronate. Your doctor may prescribe supplements if your dietary intake is not enough.
Remember that risedronate should be taken only with 6 to 8 ounces of plain water. Food, drinks, and other drugs (including vitamins; products containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum; and vitamin D) should not be taken for at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate.
If you have not already had the first food or first drink of the day (other than water), take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you have already eaten or drank, skip the missed dose. Continue your usual schedule the next day.
Although side effects from risedronate are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Talk to your doctor about possible exercises and changing certain behaviors such as smoking or alcohol consumption that may improve the effectiveness of your treatment.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Last Revised - 01/01/2003
The MedMaster Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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Page last updated: 04 October 2004 |