Actonel with Calcium (Risedronate + Calcium Carbonate)

What is Actonel with Calcium?

Actonel is part of a medicinal group called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It increases the bone mass and reduces bone loss. It may even prevent bone fractures. The drug changes the cycle of formation and breakdown of bones in the body.

What is Actonel with Calcium used for?

Actonel is used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. It is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone. The drug increases the bone mass and prevents bone fractures.

How does Actonel with Calcium work?

The drug works by binding to certain bone cells. It reduces the rate at which bone breakage occurs. This increases the bone mineral density. This also enhances the growth of cells that help in bone formations. This way, the drug helps to reduce the occurrence of osteoporosis-related fractures.

How to use Actonel with Calcium

Actonel is usually taken once a day with a full glass of water. Use only plain water and not mineral water with Actonel. Take the tablet first thing in the morning. Leave a gap of at least 30 minutes in taking the tablet and eating or drinking anything. Do not take the tablet if you cannot stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes.

Actonel with Calcium warnings and precautions

Do not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after taking an Actonel tablet. Also, do not take any other medicines including calcium, vitamins, or antacids during that period. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after you take the tablet. It is advisable to take other medicines at some other time of the day and not during that 30 minutes period.

What do I do if I have missed a Actonel with Calcium dose?

If you have missed your Actonel dose in the morning, do not take it later in the day. Wait until the next morning to take the medicine. Do not take two tablets in a day. If you take Actonel once a week and you miss your dose, take it in the morning on the day after you remember the missed dose. Then follow your regular schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Actonel with Calcium overdose?

If you have taken an Actonel overdose you should drink a full glass of milk. Do not lie down and do not make yourself vomit. Immediately seek medical attention if you think you have taken an excessive dosage.

Actonel with Calcium interactions

Antacids, supplements, or medicines containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum or other minerals can interfere with the body’s absorption of Actonel. Before taking Actonel, consult your doctor if you are also using aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as celecoxib (Celebrex), diflunisal (Dolobid), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), ketoprofen (Orudis), indomethacin, ketorolac (Toradol), piroxicam (Feldene), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), and others.

Also, do not use a new medication without consulting your doctor.

Actonel with Calcium side effects

Difficulty in breathing, stomach upset, constipation, headache or backache, allergic reactions such as hives, and swelling are some of the side effects that you may get from Actonel. Actonel serious side effects include chest pain, pain or burning sensation under the ribs or in the back, difficulty in swallowing, severe joint or muscle pain. Consult your doctor immediately if your body shows any of these side effects.