Calcium Carbonate Oral tablet, Risedronate S... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Calcium Carbonate Oral tablet, Risedronate Sodium Oral tablet, weekly

Brand name(s):

Actonel with Calcium

What is this medicine?

CALCIUM CARBONATE; RISEDRONATE (KAL see um KAR bon ate; ris ED roe nate) reduces calcium loss from bones. It is used to prevent and to treat osteoporosis.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• dental disease
• esophageal, stomach, or intestinal problems, like acid reflux or GERD
• hyperparathyroidism
• kidney stones or disease
• low or high blood calcium
• problems sitting or standing
• trouble swallowing
• an unusual or allergic reaction to calcium, risedronate, other bisphosphonates or medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take risedronate on the same day of the week, every week. Take calcium on the other 6 days of the week.

On the day you take the risedronate:
You must take this medicine exactly as directly or you will lower the amount of the medicine that you absorb into your body or you may cause yourself harm. Take this medicine by mouth first thing in the morning, after you are up for the day. Do not eat or drink anything before you take this medicine. Swallow the tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water. Do not take this medicine with any other drink. Do not chew or crush the tablet. After taking this medicine, do not eat breakfast, drink, or take any other medicines or vitamins for at least 30 minutes. Stand or sit up for at least 30 minutes after you take this medicine; do not lie down. Take this medicine on the same day every week. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

On the days you take the calcium:
Take your calcium tablet with food on the 6 days of the week that you do not take risedronate. Do not take other medicines at the same time as your calcium.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. This sheet may change.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of risedronate, take the dose on the morning after you remember. Then take your next dose on your regular scheduled day of the week. Never take 2 tablets on the same day. Do not take double or extra doses.

If you miss a dose of calcium, take it as soon as you remember with your next meal. Do not take 2 tablets with the same meal.

Do not take calcium and risedronate tablets at the same time.