Boniva (Ibandronate Sodium) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 25, 2012

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Osteoporosis »

Osteoporosis facts

Osteoporosis is a condition of increased susceptibility to fracture due to fragile bone.
Osteoporosis weakens bone and increases risk of bone fracture.
Bone mass (bone density) decreases after 35 years of age and decreases more rapidly in women after menopause.
Key risk factors for osteoporosis include genetics, lack of exercise, lack of calcium and vitamin D, personal history of fracture as an adult, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, history of rheumatoid arthritis, low body weight, and family history of osteoporosis.
Patients with osteoporosis have no symptoms until bone fractures occur.
The diagnosis of osteoporosis can be suggested by X-rays and confirmed by tests to measure bone density.
Treatments for osteoporosis, in addition to prescription osteoporosis medications, include stopping use of alcohol and cigarettes, and assur...

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Boniva Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using ibandronate (Boniva)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ibandronate, or if you have low blood levels of calcium (hypocalcemia).

Do not take an ibandronate tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least one full hour. Ibandronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 60 minutes after taking this medication.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

a vitamin D deficiency;
kidney disease; or
an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus.

Some people using medicines similar to ibandronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums.

You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and dental surgery or pre-existing dental problems.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ibandronate is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether ibandronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use ibandronate (Boniva)?

Use ibandronate exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Ibandronate tablets are taken either once each day or once each month. Ibandronate intravenous solution is given as an injection into one of your veins once every three (3) months. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional will give you the ibandronate injection. Ibandronate tablets can be taken at home.

Take the ibandronate tablet first thing in the morning, at least 1 hour (60 minutes) before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine. If you take an ibandronate tablet only once a month, take it on the same day each month and always first thing in the morning.

Take each ibandronate tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking an ibandronate tablet.

Do not crush, chew, or suck the ibandronate tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

After taking an ibandronate tablet, carefully follow these instructions:

Do not lie down or recline for at least 60 minutes after taking ibandronate.
Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water.
Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 60 minutes after taking ibandronate. It may be best to take your other medicines at a different time of the day. Talk with your doctor about the best dosing schedule for your other medicines.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Ibandronate is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Store ibandronate tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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