Indications 

Actonel is a prescription medication indicated for treating or preventing osteoporosis (bone loss) resulting from menopause, steroid use, or gonadal failure. 

Actonel is also used to enhance bone density in men with osteoporosis and to manage Paget’s disease of bone in both men and women. 

As a bisphosphonate, Actonel modifies bone metabolism in the body, potentially decelerating bone loss and preventing bone fractures. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Actonel, and with each prescription refill, read its medication guide and patient information leaflet thoroughly. If you have any questions or clarifications, consult your physician or pharmacist without hesitation. 

Actonel comes in various strengths and is administered on different schedules, such as once a day, once a week, once a month, or two consecutive days per month. 

The dosing frequency for Actonel is contingent upon the tablet’s strength and purpose of use. Any alteration in tablet strength may necessitate a change in the dosing schedule. 

Actonel must be taken on an empty stomach immediately upon waking up, with a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 ounces [180 to 240 mL]). Swallow the tablet whole; do not split, chew, crush, suck, or hold them in your mouth for any length of time. 

Refrain from eating, drinking, or taking any other medications for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel. Avoid lying down and maintain an upright position for at least 30 minutes. 

Adhere closely to the instructions of Actonel intake to maximize drug absorption and minimize the risk of esophageal injury. 

Take Actonel regularly, exactly as prescribed, on the same day every week or month or two consecutive days each month. Do not exceed or reduce the prescribed dose and avoid taking it more frequently or for a longer duration than instructed by your doctor. 

Do not discontinue Actonel without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well. Periodically discuss with your doctor whether you still need to take this medication. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential side effects of Actonel. Inform your physician immediately if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Heartburn 
• Diarrhea 
• Indigestion 
• Stomach pain 
• Back pain 
• Joint pain 
• Muscle pain 
• Flu-like symptoms 

 Serious Side Effects 

• Chest pain 
• New or worsening heartburn 
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing 
• Discomfort below ribs or in back with burning sensation 
• Severe heartburn 
• Burning in your upper stomach 
• Coughing up blood 
• New or unusual pain in the thigh or hip 
• Jaw pain 
• Numbness 
• Swelling 
• Severe joint, bone, or muscle pain 
• Muscle spasms or contractions 
• Numbness or tingly feeling (around the mouth or in fingers and toes) 

Get medical help immediately if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Actonel rarely causes severe allergic reactions, but seek prompt medical assistance if you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling (especially of the throat/tongue/mouth) 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing. 

The adverse effects of Actonel listed here are not comprehensive. If you experience any other effects not included above, inform your doctor right away. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Actonel, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to: 

• Risedronate 
• Other bisphosphonates such as alendronate 
• Any medicines 
• Any ingredients present in Actonel tablets  

To ensure Actonel is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Esophagus problems such as heartburn, narrowing of the esophagus, achalasia 
• Difficult or painful swallowing 
• Hypocalcemia (low levels of calcium in the blood) 
• Inability to maintain an upright seated or standing position for at least 30 minutes 
• Stomach/intestinal disorders such as ulcers 
• Severe kidney disease 

To mitigate the risk of drug interactions, tell your healthcare provider of all your current medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, as many medications may interact with Actonel. 

Do not take any other medications for at least 30 minutes after taking Actonel, including vitamins, calcium, iron, antacids, or laxatives. Certain medications may hinder risedronate absorption in the body. 

Actonel and Atelvia both comprise risedronate and administering both medications concurrently is contraindicated. 

Notify your physician or laboratory staff that you are taking Actonel, as it may disrupt specific laboratory examinations (bone-imaging agents). 

Actonel can lead to severe bone, muscle, or joint pain that may occur within days, months, or years after initial use. While the pain can arise even after prolonged use, it is crucial for both you and your doctor to acknowledge that Actonel could be the underlying cause.  

Contact your physician immediately if you encounter severe pain at any point during Actonel therapy. Your doctor may advise you to discontinue Actonel, and your pain may resolve after ceasing the medication. 

Actonel may induce osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a severe jawbone condition, especially if dental treatment is undertaken during medication. Before commencing Actonel treatment, have a dentist examine your teeth and perform necessary treatments, such as cleaning or adjusting ill-fitting dentures. 

Adequate dental hygiene should be practiced while taking Actonel, and consultation with a physician is advised before undergoing any dental procedures. 

Refrain from smoking or attempt to quit, as smoking can decrease bone mineral density, increasing the likelihood of fractures. In addition, limit alcohol intake and avoid heavy drinking, which can lead to bone loss. 

If pregnant or planning to conceive, exercise caution when taking Actonel, as the medication may persist in the body for an extended period, and its potential effects on a fetus are unknown. Before initiating treatment, consult a doctor to weigh the risks and benefits. 

The transfer of risedronate into breast milk is uncertain. Consult with a doctor before nursing.