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Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly)

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Bisphosphonate Adult

Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) - What is it for

​Risedronate and Ibandronate 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.

Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) 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 Risedronate or Ibandronate, discuss with your healthcare provider.

Before taking Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) , what precautions must I follow?

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) ?

Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) - Dosage and How to Use

How should Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) be used?

The medicine prescribed to you is: □ RISEDRONATE □ IBANDRONATE

  • Take 1 tablet ONCE A MONTH, on the ____ day of every month.
  • 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 RISEDRONATE (until _____am/pm):

    □ at least 1 hour after taking IBANDRONATE (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 television.


    • Do not eat anything or take any other medication.
      • Avoid products high in calcium, iron or magnesium within 30 minutes of taking Risedronate or within 1 hour of taking Ibandronate, as they will reduce the absorption and effect of the medication. Such products include:
        • Food and beverages, 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, multivitamins
  • □ If you are taking RISEDRONATE:
  • You can have a meal and take your usual medicines after 30 minutes. Take products high in calcium, iron or magnesium 30 minutes after Risedronate.

    □ If you are taking IBANDRONATE:

    You can have a meal and take your usual medicines (including products high in calcium, iron or magnesium) after 1 hour.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

  • If the next monthly dose is more than 7 days (i.e. before the ______day of the month): Take 1 tablet the next day, first thing upon waking.
  • If the next dose is within 7 days (i.e. on or after the______day of the month): Skip the missed dose.

Then, return to your usual dose on the originally scheduled day ( _______day of the month).

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

What should I do if I overdose?

Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) - Handling

How should I handle Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) safely?

Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) - Storage

How should I store Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) ?

;#Keep away from children;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) safely?

Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly) - Additional Information

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

  • The effect of Risedronate and Ibandronate 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 Risedronate or Ibandronate.
  • ​Talk to your healthcare providers for more information.

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