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What is Boniva used
for?
Boniva is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in
women after menopause. Boniva may increase bone mass by slowing
loss of bone in most women who take it, even though they won’t
be able to see or feel a difference. Boniva may help lower
the chances of breaking bones (fractures). For Boniva to treat
or prevent osteoporosis, you have to take it as prescribed.
Boniva will not work if you stop taking it.
Who should not take Boniva?
You should not take Boniva if you:
- have low blood calcium (hypocalcemia).
- cannot sit or stand up for at least 1 hour (60
minutes) after taking Boniva.
- have kidneys that work very poorly.
- are allergic to ibandronate sodium or any of the
other ingredients of Boniva.
Special Warnings:
Boniva may cause serious problems in the stomach and
the esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach)
such as trouble swallowing, heartburn, and ulcers.
What should I tell my health care provider?
Tell your health care provider if you:
- are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- are breast-feeding.
- have swallowing problems or other problems with
your esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach).
- have kidney problems.
Tell your health care provider about all the medicines
you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines,
vitamins and supplements. Some medicines, especially certain
vitamins, supplements, and antacids can stop Boniva from getting
to your bones. This can happen if you take other medicines
too close to the time that you take Boniva.
What are some possible side effects
of Boniva?
Stop taking Boniva and call your health care provider
right away if you have:
- pain or trouble with swallowing
- chest pain
- very bad heartburn or heartburn that does not get
better
Boniva may cause:
- pain or trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
- heartburn (esophagitis)
- ulcers in your stomach or esophagus (the tube that
connects your mouth and stomach)
Common side effects with Boniva are:
- diarrhea
- pain in extremities (arms or legs)
- upset stomach (dyspepsia)
For more detailed information about Boniva, ask your health
care provider or pharmacist.
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