Common Actonel uses
This medicine is a bisphosphonate used to treat Paget's disease.
 

Before using Actonel
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
 

Actonel Directions
Follow the directions for taking this medicine provided by your doctor. In order for this medicine to work, it is important to take it once a day, every day. SWALLOW WHOLE. Do not break, crush, chew, or suck on the tablet before swallowing. TAKE THIS MEDICINE with 6 to 8 ounces of PLAIN WATER ONLY the first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If your doctor instructs you to take this medicine differently, be sure to follow all instructions for eating, drinking, and taking antacids or other medicine. This medicine is effective only if taken on an empty stomach. DO NOT LIE DOWN for at least 30 minutes after taking this medicine. Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, or antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum may interfere with the absorption of this medicine. Take these products or any other medicines at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.
 

Actonel Cautions
It is important to have enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have questions about your diet or about taking dietary supplements with calcium or vitamin D. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine. IF YOU HAVE ANY TYPE OF SURGERY and cannot sit or stand upright following surgery, check with your doctor before continuing this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any medicines which contain aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
 

Info on side effects of Actonel
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include fever, chills, stomach pain, joint pain, headache, nausea, or diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience painful swallowing or severe heartburn. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
 

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. Check drug interactions
 

If you take too much Actonel
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
 

Additional Actonel information
Non-drug therapy may also help prevent bone loss. Consult your doctor about a weight-bearing exercise plan or other lifestyle changes that may be helpful. Follow all diet recommendations for adequate daily calcium and vitamin D intake. DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.