Actonel (Risedronate) (Risedronate Sodium)

CHEMICAL NAME Risedronate (ris-ED-roe-nate)

Actonel (Risedronate) is used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss especially osteoporosis in the case of adults. It causes your bones to become thinner and break easily. The condition causes bones to become thinner post menopause or due to age. The chances of such issues rise up as you age or if you take corticosteroid injections for longer periods of time.

The medication belongs to the class of medications known as bisphosphonates and works by slowing down bone loss and helps to reduce the risk of fractures. 

Common side effects of using Actonel (Risedronate) includes - diarrhea, upset stomach, fatigue, muscle ache, pain in legs and arms. 

However, much serious side effects may include - 

• Severe joint pain
• Severe dizziness
• Heartburn
• New or unusual hip or thigh pain
• Jaw pain
• Vision issues
• Groin pain
• Irritation or ulcers in stomach and esophagus
• Black tarry stools
• Vomit that resembles coffee grounds

Do not use the Actonel (Risedronate)  if you are allergic to it or if you have certain health issues like - heartburn, achalasia, esophagus issues, low calcium levels, inability to stand upright, hypocalcemia, ulcers or, kidney or stomach issues.  

The medication may cause serious effects on your foetus health. Thus, tell your doctor if you are already pregnant or wish to be pregnant or if you are breast-feeding. 

Before you start using the medication, talk to your doctor about your medical condition and about the existing medications that you are taking especially the Over the counter drugs. It can also affect calcium, iron and mineral supplements and react with dairy products like milk and yoghurt.