Actonel

--If you miss a dose...

If you realize that you missed a daily dose and have not yet had anything to eat or drink, it's okay to take your medication. If you have already eaten, skip the dose for that day and take your regular dose the following morning.

If you forget to take a weekly dose, take 1 tablet on the morning after you remember, then return to taking 1 tablet a week as originally scheduled on the chosen day. Never take 2 tablets on the same day.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Actonel.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, anxiety, back pain, belching, bladder irritation, bone disorders and pain, bronchitis, bursitis, cataracts, chest pain, colitis, constipation, depression, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, dry eyes, eye infection, flu-like symptoms, gas, headache, high blood pressure, infection, insomnia, itching, joint disorders and pain, leg cramps, muscle pain, muscle weakness, nausea, neck pain, nerve pain, pain, pneumonia, rash, ringing in ears, sinus problems, sore throat, stomach bleeding, stuffy or runny nose, swelling, tendon problems, tumor, ulcers, urinary tract infection, vertigo, vision problems, weakness

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, difficulty swallowing, esophageal ulcers, 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.