Risedronate: Uses and Side Effects

Risedronate is a medication classified as a bisphosphonate, commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis and other bone diseases. It helps to increase bone mass and reduce the risk of fractures in affected individuals.

Risedronate FAQ

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What is risedronate used for?

Find out how risedronate helps your bones stay strong, prevents osteoporosis and treats Paget's disease of bone, and how to take it. NHS medicines information on risedronate – what it's used for, side effects, dosage and who can take it.

Is risedronate a generic drug?

Risedronate is available as the brand-name drugs Actonel (immediate-release tablet) or Atelvia (delayed-release tablet). Both tablets are also available as generic drugs. Generic drugs usually cost less than the brand-name version. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name drug.

How often should I take risedronate?

Risedronate tablets come in different strengths (number of milligrams per pill) that are taken on different schedules. You may need to take a tablet once per day, once per week, once per month, or for 2 days in a row once per month. Your dosing schedule will depend on why you are taking risedronate and in what tablet strength.

What is risedronate (risedronate sodium)?

Risedronate (risedronate sodium) is a type of medicine called a bisphosphonate. It helps your bones stay as strong as possible. It can help if you have or are at risk of getting a health condition called osteoporosis. This is where your bones get weaker and more likely to break.

Does risedronate cause osteoporosis?

Some types of cancer treatment can also increase your risk of getting osteoporosis. Risedronate can also help people who have Paget's disease of bone. This weakens your bones and they can become deformed. Risedronate helps to reduce these bone changes, reduce pain and make your bones stronger and less likely to break.

How long does risedronate last?

Risedronate is a long-lasting treatment and should keep helping your bones for about 1-2 years after you stop taking it. Your doctor can advise you on what's best for you, based on your own situation. What are the possible side effects? As with any drug, risedronate can sometimes cause side effects.