Actonel
Also see more information on Actonel Oral from the
First Databank
drug library.
Brand name:
Actonel
Pronounced: AK-ton-ell
Generic name: Risedronate
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.
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.
How should you take Actonel?
Three types of Actonel are available: a 5-milligram and
30-milligram tablet that can be taken daily, and a 35-milligram
tablet that's taken once a week. The tablets should be taken at
least 30 minutes before the first food or drink of the day other
than water. Take the pill while standing or sitting in an upright
position and wash it down with a full 6 to 8 ounce glass of plain
water (do not use coffee, tea, juice, milk, or other dairy
products). Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew or suck on it. Do
not lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
Other treatment measures typically include weight-bearing
exercise, reduction of excessive smoking and drinking, and
supplemental calcium and vitamin D if you don't get enough in your
diet. If you require calcium supplements, or use any medications
containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium, avoid taking them at
the same time of day as Actonel.
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Also see more information on Actonel Oral from the
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