Actonel is a prescription drug that is used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. As this eMedTV page explains, it can also treat corticosteroid-related osteoporosis in men and women. Information on dosing and side effects is also provided.
Back pain, bladder infection, and joint pain are among the most common Actonel side effects. This eMedTV resource offers a detailed list of both common and rare side effects, as well as side effects with Actonel that may require immediate attention.
Hair loss does not appear to be a side effect of Actonel. This page from the eMedTV Web site takes a closer look at Actonel and hair loss, providing information on clinical studies and explaining what to do if hair loss occurs while taking the drug.
Is there a link between Actonel and depression? As this eMedTV article explains, depression occurred in up to 6.8 percent of people taking the drug in clinical studies. This article takes a closer look at the statistics on Actonel and depression.
Actonel is used to treat conditions such as osteoporosis and Paget's disease. This eMedTV Web page also discusses other Actonel uses, including "off-label" uses, such as treating high calcium levels in the blood, and whether it is given to children.
As this eMedTV article explains, your Actonel dosage will be based on factors such as the condition being treated and whether you prefer to take the drug daily, weekly, or monthly. Tips on Actonel dosing are also provided for those taking the drug.
Drug interactions can occur when Actonel is taken with calcium supplements, aspirin, or NSAIDs. This eMedTV selection talks about possible Actonel drug interactions and the consequences they may have and also offers helpful tips on how to avoid them.
You should not take Actonel if you cannot sit or stand upright for 30 minutes. This portion of the eMedTV library takes a look at several other Actonel warnings and precautions, including what to discuss with your doctor prior to taking the drug.
Heartburn, indigestion, and ulcers may occur when a person takes too much Actonel. This eMedTV page discusses the signs of an Actonel overdose and also describes some of the treatment options that are available, such as IV fluids and supportive care.
It may not be safe to use Actonel during pregnancy, although the full risks are currently unknown. This eMedTV page discusses Actonel and pregnancy, including the results of studies that looked at the effects of the drug on pregnant animals.
This eMedTV segment takes a detailed look at Actonel and breastfeeding. As explained, Actonel is known to pass through breast milk in rats, but no studies have been done to determine if the drug also passes through breast milk in humans.
As this eMedTV Web page explains, generic Actonel is not expected to be available until 2012, when the first patent for the drug expires. This article also discusses Actonel, generic drugs, and factors that could extend the exclusivity period.
