Risedronate
Information about Risedronate
Risedronate uses
Risedronate is used in the treatment of osteoporosis. It treats osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high risk of fractures.
How risedronate works
Risedronate is a bisphosphonate. It acts by suppressing the activity of osteoclasts, cells that cause the destruction of bone, thereby strengthening the bones and minimizing the risk of fractures.
Common side effects of risedronate
Headache, Back pain, Diarrhea, Rash, Joint pain, Muscle pain, Abnormal liver function tests, Nausea, Abdominal pain, Difficulty in swallowing, Esophagitis, Constipation, Dyspepsia, Dizziness, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Peripheral edema, Urinary tract infection, Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Gastritis, Duodenitis, Vomiting, Uveitis, Scleritis, Osteonecrosis of the external auditory canal, Glossitis (tongue inflammation), Esophageal stricture
Available Medicine for Risedronate
Expert advice for Risedronate
- Your doctor has prescribed Risedronate to make your bones stronger and lower the risk of fractures.
- Take it in the morning at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything.
- Maintain an upright posture for 30 minutes after taking the medication so the medicine does not irritate your food pipe.
- It may cause the amount of calcium in your blood to fall. Take calcium-rich food in your diet and have regular blood tests to monitor the level of calcium in your blood.
- Take it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Do not lie down after taking the medicine.
- Wait at least 1 hour before taking any other medication or eating or drinking anything.
- Take calcium and vitamin D to help build your bones when taking Risedronate.
- Do not take it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while taking Risedronate.
- Inform your doctor if you experience pain in jaw. This problem may be seen after dental work.
- Your doctor will monitor your response to Risedronate by testing your bone mineral density (BMD). This is usually done every 1-3 years.
- It is important to look after your mouth and teeth while you are taking this medicine. Have regular dental check-ups and inform your dentist about taking Risedronate.
Frequently asked questions for Risedronate
Risedronate
Q. How to take Risedronate?
Risedronate should be taken in the morning after getting up on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Do not lie down and stay fully upright for at least 30 minutes after swallowing the medicine. Avoid taking any food or medication just after taking Risedronate, maintain a gap of at least 30 minutes. Take this medicine only after consulting the doctor and follow the instructions advised.
Q. Why can you not lie down after taking Risedronate?
It is advised not to lie down after taking Risedronate as there is a possibility that the medication might come back up into the esophagus (food pipe). As a result, the esophagus may get damaged. Staying upright will help the medicine to settle down quickly in your stomach and prevent side effects like heartburn and pain.
Q. Does Risedronate cause hair loss?
Yes, Risedronate can cause hair loss, but this is not a common side effect. If you experience hair loss while taking this medication immediately report to your doctor and follow the advice given.