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.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medicine. Your doctor may order blood tests or other tests to see how you are doing.
You should make sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.
Some people who take this medicine have severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain. Tell your doctor if you have pain that does not go away or that gets worse.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children,
never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
