Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly)

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Bisphosphonate

Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) - What is it for

Alendronate and Risedronate belong to a class of medicines called “bisphosphonates”. They are used to treat and prevent osteoporosis – which causes bones to become weak and brittle – by reducing bone breakdown.

Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) cause?

Common side effects include:

Mild stomach disturbances (e.g. acid reflux, stomach fullness or bloatedness, diarrhoea or constipation)
Headache; bone, muscle and/or joint aches

If you have any concerns regarding the side effects of Alendronate or Risedronate, discuss with your healthcare provider.

Before taking Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) , what precautions must I follow?

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) ?

Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) - Dosage and How to Use

How should Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) be used?

The medicine prescribed to you is: □ ALENDRONATE □ RISEDRONATE

Take 1 tablet ONCE A WEEK on __________ (same day of the week).

Upon waking up at ____am/pm, take 1 tablet on an empty stomach with a full glass of plain water (no other beverages).

Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew or suck the tablet.

For at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine (until ____ am/pm):

Remain upright to prevent irritation of the esophagus ("food pipe"). Do not lie down. You may sit, stand or do your usual activities such as walking or watching televsion.

Do not eat anything or take any other medicine.

Avoid products high in calcium, iron or magnesium within 30 minutes of taking Alendronate or Risedronate, as they will reduce the absorption and effect of the medicine. Such products include:

Food and beverage, e.g. milk, 3-in-1 coffee or tea, dairy products (e.g. cheese or yogurt), soya products
Medicines or supplements, e.g. antacid, calcium, iron or magnesium supplements, multivations

After 30 minutes, you may have a meal and take your usual medicines including products high in calcium, iron or magnesium. However, this advice may vary, do follow the instructions given by your pharmacist.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you missed by 1 day:

Take 1 tablet the next day(_____), first thing upon waking.

If you missed by 2 or more days:

Skip the missed dose.

Then, return to your usual dose ( 1 tablet on_______) the next week.

Take only one tablet. Do not double your dose to make up for a missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) - Handling

How should I handle Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) safely?

Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) - Storage

How should I store Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;# Store at room temperature (below 30°C) in the original package.

How should I dispose of Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) safely?

Alendronate and Risedronate (Weekly) - Additional Information

What else should I note when taking Alendronate / Risedronate for osteoporosis?

The effect of Alendronate and Risedronate is only noticeable with long-term, regular use.
Adequate intake of Calcium and Vitamin D (from food or supplements) is essential for strengthening of bones. Calcium is the major building block of bone, and Vitamin D help in the absorption of Calcium by the body.
Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, smoking cessation and moderation of alcohol intake are also beneficial in the management of osteoporosis.
Good oral hygiene is also important. Inform your dentist that you are taking Alendronate or Risedronate.
Talk to your healthcare providers for more information.