Actonel DR (Risedronate sodium delayed-release) is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat osteoporosis caused by menopause, gonadal failure, and steroid use in adults. This drug is also used to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis and to treat Paget’s bone disease in men and women. Osteoporosis makes the bones thin and prone to fracture. Age, steroids, and menopause are risk factors for the disease. The active ingredient in Actonel is Risedronate sodium. Risedronate sodium belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by slowing down bone loss, strengthening the bone, and reducing the risk of bone fractures.

Manufacturer Information

Get medical help immediately if you have any signs or an allergic reaction while taking Actonel. The most common side effects of Actonel may include the following:
• Back pain;
• Constipation;
• Diarrhea;
• Heartburn;
• Indigestion;
• Joint pain;
• Muscle pain;
• Sore throat;
• Stomach pain;
• Vomiting

Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Chest pain;
• Eye pain;
• Eyes sensitivity to light;
• New or worsening heartburn;
• Pain or burning under the ribs or in the back;
• Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain;
• Swallowing difficulties;
• Vision changes

These are not all of the side effects of Risedronate sodium. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.

You should not take Actonel if you are allergic to Risedronate sodium or any ingredient in Actonel. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are already taking any drug that contains Risedronate;
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have dental problems;
• Have had problems with your oesophagus;
• Have intolerance to some sugars;
• Have low blood calcium level (hypocalcaemia);
• Have malabsorption, a condition that makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food;
• Have severe kidney disease

Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Actonel and other medicines, including calcium, antacids, laxatives, NSAIDs, and iron-containing products. Avoid deferasirox, vandetanib, omeprazole, or famotidine with Actonel. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if Actonel will harm the fetus. This drug is not intended for use in pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if risedronate sodium is excreted in breast milk. Do not breastfeed while using Actonel. Use Actonel precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with at least one glass of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the drug. Risedronate sodium may irritate the stomach and oesophagus lining. Take this medication before any food, drink, or medicine of the day. After taking the Actonel tablet, wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything, including other drugs. Store Actonel at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

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