calcium carbonate and risedronate Health Article

Generic name(s):

calcium carbonate and risedronate

Brand name(s):

calcium carbonate-risedronate, Actonel with Calcium

What is the most important information I should know about calcium carbonate and risedronate?

Actonel with Calcium is packaged as two separate medicines: 4 risedronate tablets and 24 calcium tablets. Take a risedronate tablet one day per week, first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine. Take a calcium tablet with food every day for the 6 days in between your risedronate doses. Only the calcium tablet should be taken with food. Risedronate must be taken on an empty stomach.

Do not take a risedronate tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Risedronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication. Take each dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking a risedronate tablet.

For at least the first 30 minutes after taking a risedronate tablet, do not lie down or recline, do not eat or drink anything other than plain water, and do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids.

Some people using medicines similar to risedronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre-existing dental problem.

Calcium carbonate and risedronate is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Take only the amount of calcium that your doctor recommends. Do not use other calcium supplements unless your doctor has told you to.

What is calcium carbonate and risedronate?

Risedronate is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Risedronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.

Calcium is a mineral that is needed for many functions of the body, especially bone formation and maintenance.

Risedronate is used to treat or prevent postmenopausal and steroid-induced osteoporosis. Risedronate is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone.

Calcium carbonate is used to prevent and to treat calcium deficiencies.

Calcium carbonate and risedronate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.