Drug

Actonel®

definition

Actonel® belongs to the group of bisphosphonates and thus to the drugs that are used to build up and increase bone mass. They reduce the risk of bone fractures, which can occur especially in osteoporosis.

Active ingredient

Risedronic acid, risedronate

application areas

Osteoporosis (e.g. due to menopause in women), Paget's disease, at Long-term therapy with glucocorticoids

effect

Bisphosphonates have one high affinity for the bone substance, this inhibit the activity of osteoclastswhich are responsible for the breakdown of bone substance. The bone turnover is also inhibited by the deposition on the bone hydroxylapatite.

Dosage of Actonel®

Tablets are available in the following dosages: 5 mg, 30 mg and 35 mg.

It should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before the first meal With much water respectively.

General dosage:

1x5 mg per day for osteoporosis therapy,
1x 30 mg per day for 2 months for Paget's disease, if necessary, the therapy for Paget's disease can be repeated after 2 months.

Side effects

In most cases it is Actonel® well tolerated, however, this drug is not entirely free from side effects.
In 2-10% of the cases it can Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (Gastrointestinal tract) in the form of nausea, Vomit, stomach pain and diarrhea or constipation come.
Bisphosphonates are able to form complexes with calcium ions in the intestine, which then leads to a Hypocalcemia (too little calcium).
In rare cases it can too Osteonecrosis (death of bones) in the jaw area come.
Furthermore, some patients complain about a headache, bone- and Muscle discomfort.

Interactions

Simultaneous use of drugs or foods with a high content of calcium, magnesium, aluminum or iron can lead to a reduction in the absorption of active substances.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs how Ibuprofen or Diclofenac increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal complaints.