Risedronate Sodium

Description

Actonel ( Risedronate Sodium ) is used to help reduce calcium loss from bones. should be taken at least 30 minutes before the first food or drink of the day other than water. To facilitate delivery to the stomach, it should be swallowed while the patient is in an upright position and with a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 oz). Patients should not lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.

Manufacturer: Cipla		Average Delivery Time: 12 Days
Sold Under Brand Name:		Exp. Date: Approx. March 2009

	Quantity	Strength	Price (USD)	Our Guarantees
	4 Tab(s)	35mg	$20.00
	8 Tab(s)	35mg	$37.00
	12 Tab(s)	35mg	$55.00
	24 Tab(s)	35mg	$108.00
	48 Tab(s)	35mg	$210.00

Risedronate Sodium (generic Actonel) Review

Why is Actonel prescribed?

Although our bones seem solid and stable, they actually undergo constant renewal. Specialized cells called osteoclasts draw used calcium out of the bones while other cells called osteoblasts replace it. Especially after menopause, this process can get out of balance. Calcium starts to leach out of the bones faster than it can be replaced, leading to the brittle-bone disease called osteoporosis.

Actonel combats this problem by reducing the activity of the osteoclasts and slowing the loss of calcium from the bones. It is prescribed for postmenopausal women, both to prevent osteoporosis and to strengthen the bones once the disease has begun. It is also used to prevent or treat osteoporosis resulting from therapy with steroid medications, and it is used in the treatment of Paget's disease, a condition in which patches of bone become softened and enlarged.

Both Actonel and a similar drug called Fosamax are members of the family of drugs called bisphosphonates.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Actonel has caused harm when tested on pregnant animals. It is not recommended during human pregnancy unless its benefits are judged to outweigh the potential risks. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately.

If you are nursing a baby, you'll need to choose between discontinuing nursing or discontinuing the drug.

Why should Actonel not be prescribed?

Your doctor will not prescribe Actonel if you have low calcium levels in your blood or the drug gives you an allergic reaction. You also cannot take Actonel if you are unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the drug. In addition, the drug is not recommended for people with severe kidney disease.

Special warnings about Actonel

The drugs in Actonel's family have been known to cause problems in the canal between the mouth and the stomach (the esophagus). Among the disorders that have been reported are esophageal irritation, esophageal ulcers, difficulty swallowing, and gastric ulcers.

You can guard against such problems by taking the medication with plenty of water, swallowing the pill while standing or sitting upright, and remaining upright for 30 minutes afterwards. If you experience difficulty or pain on swallowing, chest pain, or heartburn that is severe or worse than usual, stop taking Actonel and check with your doctor immediately.

Most important fact about Actonel

Actonel not only stops the bone loss of osteoporosis, but actually reverses the disease and increases bone mineral density. As the bones grow stronger, your chances of sustaining a fracture decline.

Overdosage

A large overdose of Actonel can dramatically reduce calcium levels in the blood. Warning signs include a tingling sensation and spasms. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.