Description
This medication is typically used for osteoporosis. Even though you may not feel its effects, this medication takes effect after a few months.
Instructions
This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Take it regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.
This product contains two types of drugs that must be taken as follows:
- Take the weekly tablet one day per week, in the morning, on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before any food or other medication. It must be taken only with water.
- Take the daily tablet once daily on the other 6 days per week, with food.
- Because it may cause esophageal irritation, this product must be swallowed with a large glass of water.
- Furthermore, avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking it.
- It is not advisable to split, chew or crush this medication since it may irritate your mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
- If you forget to take your weekly tablet, take it on the next day in the morning. Do not take the daily tablet that day.
- If you forget to take your daily tablet, take it as soon as you remember during that day. Otherwise, discard it.
- Both drugs should be taken on different days. Do not take more than one tablet a day.
Weekly tablet:
Missed dose:
Side Effects
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some adverse effects, notably:
- it may cause headaches;
- it may cause joint pain;
- it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
- it may cause stomach ache;
- it may cause dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
- it may cause flu-like symptoms.
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing adverse effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
Storage
As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.
Additionnal Information
This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.
General Notes
When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:
- Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
- If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
- If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
- The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.