Risedronate

Dosage Forms Available

• Risedronate is available for use as oral tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is prescribed for adults. It is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Contraindications

• Risedronate is contraindicated in patients with hypocalcaemia (low blood calcium levels) or a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient.
• It is also contraindicated in patients who are unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes.

Other Medications to Avoid With This Medicine

• Risedronate may interact with medications containing calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminium (like calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminium hydroxide).
• It can also interact with H2 blockers (like ranitidine and cimetidine) and proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole and pantoprazole).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• In case of an overdose, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Some symptoms may include stomach pain, muscle cramps, numbness or tingling, tight muscles in your face, and unusual thoughts or behaviour.
• If you miss a dose of the medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses on the same day.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary, generally harmless, and resolve upon stopping this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water may help manage some of the gastrointestinal side effects like stomach pain and indigestion.
• Eating a bland diet can help manage nausea or diarrhoea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Risedronate does not usually affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, some people may feel dizzy after taking it. If you experience this, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until these symptoms resolve.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is generally advised to avoid this medicine during pregnancy and lactation unless deemed necessary by the doctor. Consult with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with oesophagus problems, such as narrowing or difficulty swallowing, should take Risedronate with caution.
• Those with stomach ulcers or other digestive issues, kidney disease, or low blood calcium levels should also exercise caution while taking this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendation

• Regular weight-bearing exercise, like walking or lifting weights, can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these can decrease bone density.