Actonel with Calcium

Generic name:calcium carbonate and risedronate [ KAL-see-um-KAR-bo-nate-and-rye-SED-roe-nate ]
Drug class:Bisphosphonates

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 5, 2021.

What is Actonel with Calcium?

Actonel with Calcium (risedronate and calcium) is packaged as two separate medicines: 4 Actonel tablets and 24 calcium tablets. Risedronate is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Risedronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractise.

Calcium is a mineral that is needed for many functions of the body, especially bone formation and maintenance.

Actonel is used to treat or prevent postmenopausal and steroid-induced osteoporosis. Actonel is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone.

Calcium carbonate is used to prevent and to treat calcium deficiencies.

Actonel with Calcium may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use Actonel with Calcium if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.

Do not take an Actonel tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Risedronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Actonel with Calcium if you are allergic to calcium carbonate or risedronate, or if you have:

• low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia); or

• a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.

Do not take an Actonel tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Risedronate 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 30 minutes after taking this medication.

To make sure Actonel with Calcium is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• low or high levels of calcium in your blood;

• kidney disease;

• trouble swallowing; or

• an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus.

In rare cases, this Actonel with Calcium may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw. Symptoms include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work. The longer you use Actonel with Calcium, the more likely you are to develop this condition.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw may be more likely if you have cancer or received chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other risk factors include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre existing dental problem.

Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this Actonel with Calcium.

It is not known whether Actonel with Calcium will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether calcium carbonate and risedronate passes into breast ...