Risedronate and Ibandronate (Monthly)

What is Bisphosphonate (Monthly) 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.

How should I take or use Bisphosphonate (Monthly)?

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 forget to take or use Bisphosphonate (Monthly)?

• 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 are some common side effects of Bisphosphonate (Monthly)?

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.

How should I store Bisphosphonate (Monthly)?

• Keep away from children
• Store at room temperature

What else should I know about Bisphosphonate (Monthly)?

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.