subject: Tips On Taking Actonel For Treating Osteoporosis [print this page] Tips On Taking Actonel For Treating Osteoporosis
Actonel is most commonly used to treat bone loss or osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. However, it is also prescribed for increasing bone mass in men. The drug not only stops further bone loss, but also strengthens the bones. This helps to lower the vulnerability to fractures in patients suffering from osteoporosis. The medication is also used for treating Paget's disease in both men and women. Information About Proper Usage and Dosage of Actonel
Actonel tablets are prescribed in different strengths (milligrams per pill). Milder tablets are taken once every day, while the stronger versions have to consumed one or two times in a month. The dosage schedule depends on the tablet strength prescribed by your doctor. In case you decide to change tablet strengths, you will have to change your schedule as well. Therefore, follow the directions given on the prescription label carefully. Some other things you need to know about taking this medication are:
Take the tablet in the morning, at least half-an-hour before you consume any food or drink. If your dosage schedule is once a week, take the tablet on the same day every week.
Swallow the tablet. Do not chew, suck or crush the pill.
Take each dosage with a full glass of plain water, not mineral water.
Do not lie down or recline after taking a dose, for at least 30 minutes. Sit upright or stand up, if possible.
Do not take other medications, such as calcium, vitamins or antacids, for at least half-an-hour after taking Actonel. It is best to take other medications at another time of the day. Consult your doctor about the most feasible dosing schedule for all your medicines.
Store the tablets at normal room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
To ensure that the medication is improving your condition, get your bone mineral density tested at regular intervals. Remember, Actonel is just one part of your recovery program. Treatment may also include exercise, diet changes and vitamin and calcium supplements.
Possible Side-Effects of Actonel
Some people using Actonel and similar drugs have developed osteonecrosis or bone loss in the jaw. Common symptoms of this condition are jaw pain, numbness, swelling, gum infection and loose teeth. The vulnerability to osteonecrosis is more in people who have cancer or have undergone chemotherapy or radiation. This drug should not be taken by people who have hypocalcemia or low calcium level in the blood. Moreover, people with Vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease or stomach ulcers must consult a doctor before going on the drug. This is because these conditions highten the susceptibility to the side effects of Actonel.
