Risedronate belongs to a group of medications called bisphosphonates. It is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis for women who are past menopause and to treat and prevent osteoporosis caused by treatment with corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) for men and women. It is also used to treat osteoporosis for men to improve bone mineral density, and a condition called Paget's disease.

Use as prescribed by a doctor

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome.
abdominal pain
constipation
diarrhea
dry eye
dry mouth
gas
headache
heartburn
inflammation of the nose
itching
joint pain
leg cramps
nausea
pain in bones, muscles, or joints
ringing in the ears
skin itch or rash
stomach discomfort or pain
swelling of the ankles or feet
weakness
weight loss
wheezing
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
delayed healing and infection (usually after tooth extraction)
difficulty breathing
numbness, tingling, or muscle spasms (signs of low levels of calcium)
pain in bones, muscles, or joints (severe)
painful tongue
vision changes
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
symptoms of an allergic reaction (e.g., swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, face, lips, mouth, or throat; difficulty breathing or swallowing)
signs of damage to the esophagus: pain in the esophagus (throat area) or behind the breastbone, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, or new or worsening heartburn
symptoms of a stomach or intestinal ulcer, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of weight or appetite, black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood

There may be an interaction between risedronate and any of the following:
antacids
supplements containing minerals such as aluminum, calcium, iron, and magnesium

If you suspect an overdose call the emergency department or your doctor immediately.

Do not double doses to make up for a missed dose.

It is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis for women who are past menopause and to treat and prevent osteoporosis caused by treatment with corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) for men and women. It is also used to treat osteoporosis for men to improve bone mineral density, and a condition called Paget's disease.

Store at room temperature