Actonel With Calcium Uses

Actonel With Calcium uses are primarily concerned with preventing and treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. The drug works by slowing down the rate at which bone is broken down; calcium helps in the formation of new bone. "Off-label" Actonel With Calcium uses include treating osteoporosis in men and treating Paget's disease of the bone. This drug has not been approved for use in children.

 

Actonel With Calcium Uses: An Overview

Actonel® With Calcium (risedronate and calcium) is a combination medication that contains risedronate (a bisphosphonate) and calcium carbonate. It is approved for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
 

Actonel With Calcium Uses for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, which means "porous bone," is a disease characterized by low bone mass (bone thinning) that leads to fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women are affected by this condition. Fortunately, osteoporosis is a disease that can be prevented and treated.
 
Common causes of osteoporosis include:
 
  • Age-related bone loss
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Long-term corticosteroid use
  • Certain diseases.
     
Race and ethnicity may play a role in developing osteoporosis as well, but more research is needed to determine the connection.
 
Often, osteoporosis treatment is not started until a bone is broken, as there are usually no symptoms of osteoporosis. However, treatment may be started earlier if the disease is detected using a test (see Diagnosing Osteoporosis). In fact, some osteoporosis medications (including Actonel With Calcium) can be used for osteoporosis prevention in people who are at high risk for developing the condition (see Risk Factors for Osteoporosis).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;