Ibandronate Sodium Oral tablet, monthly

What is this medicine?

IBANDRONATE (i BAN droh nate) slows calcium loss from bones. It is used to treat osteoporosis in women past the age of menopause.

How should I use this medicine?

You must take this medicine exactly as directed or you will lower the amount of medicine you absorb into your body or you may cause yourself harm. Take your dose by mouth first thing in the morning, after you are up for the day. Do not eat or drink anything before you take this medicine. Swallow the tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water. Do not take this medicine with any other drink. Do not chew or crush the tablet. After taking this medicine, do not eat breakfast, drink, or take any other medicines or vitamins for at least 1 hour. Stand or sit up for at least 1 hour after taking this medicine. Do not lie down. Take this medicine on the same day every month. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions such as skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue

• black or tarry stools

• change in vision

• chest pain

• heartburn or stomach pain

• jaw pain, especially after dental work

• redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

• trouble or pain when swallowing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bone, muscle or joint pain

• changes in taste

• diarrhea or constipation

• headache

• nausea or vomiting

• stomach gas or fullness

What may interact with this medicine?

• aluminum hydroxide

• antacids

• aspirin

• calcium supplements

• drugs for inflammation like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others

• iron supplements

• magnesium supplements

• vitamins with minerals

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose and your next dose is more than 7 days away then take the missed dose on the next morning you remember. Then take your next dose on your regular day of the month. If your next dose is due within the next 7 days then skip the missed dose. Do not take 2 tablets within 1 week of each other. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• dental disease

• esophageal, stomach, or intestine problems, like acid reflux or GERD

• kidney disease

• low blood calcium

• low vitamin D

• problems sitting or standing for 60 minutes

• trouble swallowing

• an unusual or allergic reaction to ibandronate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medicine. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Your doctor may order blood tests and other tests to see how you are doing.

You should make sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

Some people who take this medicine have severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain. Tell your doctor if you have pain that does not go away or that gets worse.