Drug
Risedronate
Pronounced
"riss-ED-row-nate"
Uses
Risedronate is used by adults to treat a disease that weakens bones (Paget's disease). This medication helps to reduce bone pain and may prevent long-term complications from this disease. Risedronate works by slowing bone loss to help maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of broken bones (fractures). It belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break more easily. Your chance of getting osteoporosis goes up as you age, after menopause, or if you are taking corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for a long time.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using risedronate and each time you get a refill. Follow the instructions very closely to make sure you absorb as much of the drug as possible and reduce the risk of injury to your esophagus. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth, after getting up for the day and before taking your first food, beverage, or other medication. Do not take it at bedtime or while you are still in bed.
Take this medication with a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 ounces or 180 to 240 milliliters). Do not take it with any other beverage. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or suck on it. Then stay fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes, and do not lie down until after your first food of the day. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate before you eat or drink anything other than plain water and before taking any other medication by mouth.
Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins with minerals, antacids containing calcium/magnesium/aluminum, dairy products (such as milk, yogurt), and calcium-enriched juice may interfere with absorption of risedronate. Medications such as quinapril, sucralfate, and bismuth subsalicylate may also interfere with absorption. Do not take these products for at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. For the treatment of Paget's disease, remember to take it at the same time each morning, usually for 2 months.
This drug may also be prescribed once weekly for osteoporosis. Check your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are uncertain about your dosing schedule. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of long-term use of this medication.