Actonel®

Actonel® belongs to the group of bisphosphonates and is therefore one of the drugs used to build and increase bone mass. They reduce the risk of bone fractures, which can occur especially in osteoporosis. Risedronic acid, risedronate osteoporosis (e.g. due to menopause in women), Paget’s disease, in long-term therapy with glucocorticoid bisphosphonates have a high affinity to bone substance, inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are responsible for the breakdown of bone substance.

In addition, bone turnover is inhibited by the attachment to the bone hydroxylapatite. Tablets are available in the following dosages: 5 mg, 30 mg and 35 mg. They should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach with plenty of water about 30 minutes before the first meal.

General dosage:

  • 1×5 mg a day for osteoporosis therapy,
  • 1x 30 mg per day for 2 months in patients with Paget’s disease. If necessary, therapy for Paget’s disease can be repeated after 2 months. In most cases Actonel® is well tolerated, but this drug is not completely free of side effects.

In 2-10% of cases, gastrointestinal (gastrointestinal) tract disorders may occur in the form of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea or constipation. Bisphosphonates are able to form complexes with calcium ions in the intestine, which then leads to hypocalcaemia (too little calcium). In rare cases, osteonecrosis (dying off of bones) in the jaw area can occur.

Some patients also complain of headaches, bone and muscle complaints. The simultaneous intake of drugs or food with a high content of calcium, magnesium, aluminium or iron can lead to a reduction in the absorption of active substances. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal complaints. Actonel® should not be taken at:

  • Renal dysfunction, especially if creatinine clearance is below 30ml/min
  • Pregnancy and lactation
  • Hypocalcaemia (calcium deficiency)
  • Current dental surgery treatment
  • Disorders of bone and mineral metabolism