What is Atelvia?

Common Brand(s): Atelvia

Risedronate is used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break more easily. Your chance of developing osteoporosis increases as you age, after menopause, or if you are taking corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for a long time.

This medication works by slowing bone loss. This effect helps maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of broken bones (fractures). Risedronate belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates.

Uses

• postmenopausal osteoporosis
• post-menopausal osteoporosis prevention
• osteoporosis in male patient

Usage Instructions

Read the Medication Guide, and if available, the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking risedronate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or immediately after breakfast as directed by your doctor, usually once a week. Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule and take it on the same day every week. Do not take it at bedtime or while you are still in bed.

Take this medication with at least half a glass (4 ounces/120 milliliters) of plain water. Do not take it with any other beverages. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not cut, crush, chew, or suck on it. Then stay fully upright (sitting, standing or walking) and do not lie down for at least 30 minutes.

Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins that contain minerals, and products that contain calcium/magnesium/aluminum (such as antacids, laxatives) may interfere with absorption of risedronate. Medications such as quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), sucralfate, and bismuth subsalicylate may also interfere with absorption. Take these products at a different time of the day from when you take risedronate. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate before you take these other products.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it on the same day each week. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of long-term use of this medication.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details.