Actonel
The below information on Actonel has been taken from official FDA sources, but we cannot guarantee it's accuracy. Please use this site for educational purposes only. This site does not replace a proper discussion with your doctor.
| Brand Name: | Actonel |
| Generic: | Risedronate Sodium |
| Availability: | Prescription |
| This drug was approved by the FDA in one form or another on: 1998-03-27 , | |
| This drug is made in one form or another by the following companies: Procter and Gamble Pharmaceuticals | |
| This drug is available in the following forms: Tablets | |
| View the actual FDA approved label for this drug at the following links: PDF Label |
About Actonel
Actonel is used to treat Paget’s disease of the bone.
Actonel is also used to prevent and treat:
- postmenopausal osteoporosis
- glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in men and women
Precautions for Actonel
Tell your doctor if you have a history of stomach problems because Actonel can cause difficulty swallowing, inflammation of the esophagus, esophageal ulcer, and stomach ulcer.
If you have a bone-imaging test, tell your doctor or technician you are taking Actonel because it can interfere with the test.
Side Effects of Actonel
Side effects of Actonel are generally mild to moderate and do not require stopping the treatment.
The following is a listing of the most common side effects:
- flu syndrome
- chest pain
- diarrhea
- abdominal
- pain nausea
- constipation
- swelling
- joint pain
- headache
- dizziness rash
Who Should Not Take Actonel
You should not take Actonel if you:
- have low calcium levels in the blood
- have bone or mineral problems that have not been treated by your health care provider
- have severe kidney problems
- are unable to stand or sit up for at least 30 minutes.
User Comments and Reviews:
janet swelling and pain May 12th, 2008 Rating: 9.0000 I am 52 years old. I took 30mg fo Actonel on Saturday. On Sunday morning I had stiffness and moderate pain in both knees. By Sunday night I was unable to bend either knee or walk without help. The swelling lasted about 2 weeks. I was treated with cortisone shots and anti-inflamitories. Anybody else had similar experience? Anonymous No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 8.1875 Doesn't anyone who has a position in the manufacture and sale of ACTONEL read these comments??? I can't believe there isn't some reply -to all the negativity- from Procter and Gamble or Aventis Pharmaceuticals. Inc.
Elaine No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 8.0000 I took Actonel for 3 months with no effects initially but after 8 weeks I started to have difficulty swallowing and after 11 weeks pain in the duodenum/ stomach. I have been off the medication for 4 weeks but still have difficulty swallowing. Has anyone else experienced this side-effect? Sharon achiness & gas May 12th, 2008 Rating: 8.0000 I had a lot of achiness that felt like the flu for the first month or two. Then I was fine, but now I'm dealing with delibitating gas pain and bloating. I don't know if I can live like this! Anonymous sleeplessness May 12th, 2008 Rating: 8.0000 I have taken 7 weekly doses of actonel. I take medications for my bi-polar disorder. I recently have been experiencing severe sleeplessness, almost to the stage of being a medical emergency. Thanks to this website I will now get my calcium blood level. I have dealt with a lactose intolerance of sorts for quite a few years. If I continue actonel I need a calcium supplement Anonymous No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.5000 I have noticed I seem to have some neck pain. Also I have been having night sweats and some mild hot flahes. Ethel recovery time May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.5000 I was on the daily dose of Actonel until about two months ago. Started having terrible pains in my back, chest, and sides. I stopped taking Actonel and for a while thought I saw some improvement, but I still have pain most days to varying degrees. Can anyone else indicate how long after discontinuing use I should still expect pain? Should I try to be patient or is it time to get back to my doctor? jane abel well May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.4583 my doctor recommended this.. but I refuse to support the drug lords of P & G.... how did our folks survive without all this stuff..I am becoming skeptical of all this pill popping to make the fat cat rich.. All women over 50 I know are diganosed with osteoporis.. this seems very strange to me..Lets start asking questions and not swallowing pills.. every time we go to the doctors.. cathy murry ACTONEL May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.2857 I saw my doctor last week for my physical and he gave me a perscription for actonel. After reading all the negative responses it really scares me to even think of taking this drug. I have a seizure disorder which was caused by my former doctor giving me a sample pill and the side effect was lose of conscienceness or grand mal seizures. I had a grand mal seizure at work and now my life has changed forever. I am on several pills for seizures,developed reflux action because I couldn't keep anything down. The seizures caused panic attacks and I ended up in therapy for post dramatic syndrome. I never took anything more than an aspirin in 2000. So after reading all your testamonials I am going to contact my doctor and let him know he should recommend something else for me.I already have a curve in my lower spine and I don't know if it was from birth or just happened over time and recently fell on my tailbone. Most of seem to experience some sort of back pain I don't need this added to my life. Please all of you take care of yourself.
God Bless,
CathySue actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.0000 I've now taken two doses of the weekly form of actonel and have noticed an increase in hot flashes and some joint soreness. I'm wondering about the phrase "postmenopausal." When asked by the nurse in my doctor's office if I was postmenopausal I said yes. I had a total hysterectomy almost 20 years ago and have been on hrt ever since. I'd been experiencing some hot flashes at night but that was my only symptom. Since starting this med, though, I'm feeling very menopausal. Anyone else experienced this? I don't see anything about these symptoms being listed in possible side effects. I had the medicine prescribed while I was in the States recently but am now back in my home in Hungary. Guess I'll have to make some phone calls both here and there. stephie Is it the Actonel? May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.0000 I started actonel last October and it's been downhill ever since. A couple of weeks after my first once a week 35mg, I developed severe joint pain in most of my joints. It has continued ever since. My joints are tender to touch. In January my shoulder froze up and I couldn't move it for a few months. Now I have knee pain and find myself limping on some days. The joint pain is continual, steady in some, transient in others. I was put on this drug so it would help my bones, meanwhile my bones are getting worse with each passing day. The tests I've had so far are coming back okay. I haven't had a bone density since last October but I don't need another one to tell my bones are getting worse. I am very concerned about actonel. I keep complaining to my doctor as I feel it may have something to do with the way I'm feeling. He said to boost my calcium and remain on Actonel. I would go off of it on my own, but now I think what if it's not the actonel and I get even worse. I don't know what to do or what to think, I never in my life had so much pain where my bones are concerned, but it's very coincidental that this whole mess started when I started Actonel. May God help me! Lyn actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.0000 I have been on actonel for about 9 months. Like Sherry I have been experiencing severe lower back pain that does not seem to go away. I do have disc problems and sometimes think it is that. But after reading a lot of the comments on this forum, it seems to be a familar complaint, maybe the drug manufacturer should read our comments. Am serious thinking about giving the drug up and just going on a really good calcium etc., supplement. Diane Actonel is bad..... May 12th, 2008 Rating: 7.0000 Before any woman takes Actonel, she should get her hands on a copy of a book called, "The Osteoporosis Myth", by Gillian Sanson. In her book, she explains how dangerous both Fosax and Actonel are in the treatment of osteoporosis. I also have friends who started taking Actonel with nothing but bad results. One friend had acid reflex for a year after she stopped taking the drug. Doctors and drug companies are making big bucks off of these drugs. Beware ! Incidently, the book I mentioned, is listed on the web at www.Amazon.com. Lynn Packaging of Actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.3030 Your customers must be healthy or they couldn't get the package open.
I just got my new 4 pack and have spent about one half hour trying to get to the first pill as instructed. It is the most impossible packaging I have met in many years of taking medications. This time, I got worn out with the struggle and tore the package apart. It is cute. It looks like it has everything - such a clever way to only take one pill once a week.
You are worn out before you get to the pill. Not to mention the fact that it probably adds quite a bit to the cost of the medication.
There must be an easier (and cheaper) way of getting 4 pills to a consumer.Carole No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.2667 I used one 7-day sample dose of Actonel given to me by my Dr. Within 7 hours of taking the drug, I thought I was paralyzed. The back pain was excruciating, and I could barely move. I was bedridden and it took almost a week to subside. I called P&G, who told me they had other complaints about back pain, and they don't know what chemical in the drug causes it.
Please respond if you've had a similar experience. Thanks.Anonymous No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.0000 I took Actonel 35mg. tablet on Saturday and on Sunday morning I had extreme bleeding in my urine. On Monday morning the urine was even bloodier. I called the doctor and he said this had nothing to do with Actonel. I'm going to see another doctor today. Mariann No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.0000 I am so glad I logged on to this! I am in my 2nd. month with Actonel and am have been having some strange ineplicable symptons. Night sweats, sleeplessness, muscle pain in my thighes, and knee and elbow joint pain.
I am going to copy some of these comments and take them to my Dr. Maybe this wonder drug isn't for everybody!!!Ann No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.0000 I have been taking the weekly Actonel for a year and have had no negative side effects. After getting my BDT back this year, there was a slight improvement. My doctor now wants me to take Evista, too. I am a bit concerned to take both to improve my bone density. It seems that the problem is that calcium is leached out of my body even when I take calcium supplements and exercise. Getting older isn't a easy process to accept!! Anonymous my twin May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.0000 I am 51 years young. I have an identical twin sister and we had bone densities one day apart in neighboring towns. Her results and mine were identical! We were both diagnosed with Osteopenia then told by current guidelines, technically we have osteoporosis. She was started on low dose estrogen. I was given Actonel35mg. When we both go back for a follow up, it will be interesting. I have been on Actonel 35 mg for two months. As far as the Actonel goes, I do not understand the packaging. I try to follow the instructions, but end up fighting with the "drawer" Just put them on a flat piece of cardboard. The first two or three weeks I was on it, I had a dull headache the afternoon after taking it that morning. I think I bruise more easilly now that I am taking it. I hope it keeps me from shrinking or getting a hump in my back. Chris Paget's Disease May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.0000 I am about to start taking Actonel for Paget's Disease.I'm anxious to find an end of the pain. My Dr says Actonel is the answer. Any comments? Michele No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 6.0000 I have been on Actonel for 9 weeks now. At first, I seemed fine but over the last week I have noticed that I feel nauseous, have crampy feelings in my stomach. Has anyone experienced this after being on Actonel for the same liength of time? Barbara No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.9000 I have only been taking 35 mg. tablets Actonel for 4 weeks. I noticed a bit of nausea after the second week and now after 4 doses I'm having more nausea as well as gas and digestive distress. I intend to stop it for 2 or 3 weeks to see if there is any improvement. Does anyone else experience these symptoms? Sherry Back pain May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.8667 I have been taking actonel for 6 months. After a couple of months use I noticed I have been having back pain. It seems to move around the muscles in my lower and upper back. I never had this problem before. It never seems to go away and I wondered if other users have this problem. I'm getting very nervous about using this drug anymore. Doris White low calcium May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.7778 When I read not to take Actonel when your calcium is low I don't understand why my doctor was not concerned.?
After my blood test I visited my Doctor and she just said your calcium is low. Should I be concerned about this at all.
I take other precriptions, Methotextrate? could one of thoes be my problem why I can't store calcium in my system.
Would you please respond . Thank you.terry actonel/vioxx May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.6667 I am a 61 year old female and have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, stenosis of the spine and several other spinal problems. I have been given both drugs mentioned above, actonel/vioxx. I'm not even sure it's a good idea to take both together, no one ever said. Also, I'm still having quite a bit of severe back pain and sometimes my stomach feels like my insides are going to fall out, the only relief i get is to wear a belt type binder to hold it firm. I've been taking these pills for several months and don't seem to see any great relief. what is the purpose,then. Does anybody out there know of anything that has helped so I can ask my doctor? Anonymous Actonel 35 Mg Problems May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.6667 I took the drug for the first time and did not want to after reading the side effects. The doctor gave me a sample and I debated over it but after hearing my bones were going to fracture and break, that scared me enough to give it a good try. I had asked several people who were taking a Rx for the same problem. Some were happy and had no side effects and others said it gave them pain and they felt awful like they had a stomach virus or flu. I decided to think positive what could be worse than broken bones. I took the pill with plenty of water and went about my day. I noticed a difference in the stomach with the bloating and stomach acting up, but that was no big deal, if it meant a positive end, this was easy so far. After a few hours the stomach started to go away and I still kept busy thinking Great! I ate lunch and by that afternoon became sick. The stomach kicked in with pain and the abdominal cramps started off and on. I thought it may be nerves. I took something to calm my stomach and it did not work either, that is when I knew it was not nerves. I ate a very light dinner and was very sick to my stomach after wards and it did not go away. The next morning that same bloating and discomfort was there again and no matter what I ate or drank it kept up. After meals I felt sick and I did not want to eat either. I want to take it again but now I feel it is not worth being sick all the time. If a drug makes you sick, nervous, gives you pain in the stomach and back and you feel lousy ...........why take it. Kathy actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.6250 I've been taking actonel for about 2 years. I have had no negative effects from the drug. However, my bone density tests have not shown improvement. Nancy Katz Actonal Follow up May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.5000 I submitted my comments the first of last week and although it has not appeared here, I am convinced that my episode with one 35 mg Actonel was the reason for my inability to sit, lay down, sleep, talk or do anything but tolerate the pain of my swollen neck, tingling tounge and lips
and pressure on my layrnex causing my voice to sound like I had gravel in my throat, was a reaction to the Actonel.
Since my Doctor passed a message on to me via her Nurse to take another one to see if it happens again, I consider her response to be uncaring and unprofessional and have canceled further appointments.
I have recovered but it has been slow and only sufgaces some if I am overly tired.
I also will send this link to her attention in hopes that it will make a difference in her prescribing this to anyone else or at least paying attention to a plea for help when it goes awry.Natalie Bone Density Improvement May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.0000 I began taking Actonel a little over 2 years ago when a full bone scan showed that I was in danger of hip fracture and had lost bone density that put me on the borderline of osteosporosis. I have a family history of osteosporosis. At that time I was on the 5mg daily dosage. Last year, I switched to the weekly dosage. During the 2 year period I had some back pain, but I related that directly to a 15 pound weight gain. When I lost the 15 pounds, the back pain went away. I had a full body bone scan about 2 months ago after the first 2 years on Actonel. I am no longer at risk for hip fracture and my 60 year old body now has a spine with a bone density that is excellent for someone in their mid-30's. My physician told me I could either quit taking the Actonel now or can continue taking it as a preventive measure. Stephee Actonel and low blood calcium May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.0000 I started to take actonel 4 months ago 1 35mg/per week. A week or so later my joints and muscles started to hurt and haven't let up since. I don't know if the joint/muscle pain is related to Actonel. However my blood tests show that my blood calcium levels are low. I've read that you shouldn't take Actonel with low blood calcium. What will happen if I continue taking Actonel with low blood calcium? Can anyone tell me why you shouldn't take this medicine with this condition. Thank you.
Stepheetina No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.0000 i am going to start my first dose of actonel this week.
im almost 36 and had a hysterectomy at 30, so was thrown into early menopause and now i have had bone loss and alot in my spine according to the doctor. this medication costs alot for 4 stinkin little pills, so ill keep ya posted on whats up...Ralph Schuler No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.0000 My mother-in-law took two of the weekly doses of Actonel. She is 86 years old. She started vomiting blood and bled from rectum also. Came very close to dieing. Received 7 units of blood. Put tube down her throat to look at her stomach- She had a huge bleeding ulcer in her stomach. They finally got the bleeding to stop. Spent 1 week in hospital. Will take weeks to get her strength back. Wife taking care of her now! This is a dangerous drug! Needs to be taken off the market. I will be contacting Procter and Gamble. Also looking into taking legal action! They use people as guinea pigs- It's not ethical. If your on this drug I'd recommend you stop immediatly. Nancy Actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.0000 I am a 74 year old female. A recent bone denisty scan shows that I am borderline Osteopenic in both hips. I have been on HRT since 1972 for a complete hystorectomy and attribute my healthy bones to this treatment.
The Doctor that had the bone scan done then reccomended taking (1)35mg of Actonel weekly. I took my first pill on Thursday, September 8,2005. I awoke on the 9th with a pain in my neck as if I had slept crooked and as the day progressed my neck began to swell. My range was limited, side to side and tilting back was next to impossible. My lips and tongue tingled. I placed a call to the prescribing doctor and was forced to leave work early. Sleep was not to come as the swelling increased, my voice sounded like gravel. Luckily the tingling in my lips and tongue went away. I did not, could not sleep all night, until Saturday the 10th and then out of sheer exhaustion, but only sitting up. The swelling and pain during the night of the 9th was so intense that I screamed every time I moved, could not lay down and if I forced it, could not get up without screaming and crying. Ice packs, alternated with a heating pad as the next night came and went. In short, Friday, Saturday and Sunday was pure torture without any letting up. Pain pills did not faze it. By Monday I was still swollen but not as bad, still using ice/heat therapy with pain pills and limited range of motion. Finaly the Doctors office called with her response that "SHE had never heard of such a reaction and that it must be something else. And to be SURE, please take YOUR NEXT PILL to see if it happens AGAIN". HELLO? I dont THINK SO!
I'll take my chances with just calcium, exercise as permitted by my Fibromyalgia, and good nutrition.
As for taking ACTONEL? PHHHTTTTT!!!!!
Today, Tuesday the 13th, not over but better. Pretty scary isn't it? To think that I would consider trading off fairly good health for such terrible pain.
Doctors tell me that they have never heard of such a reaction. But then P&G does not include testimonials that are not aired on your local TV Network, do they?Anonymous No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 5.0000
I am 64 years old. In Jan my doctor prescriped Actonel because my BDT
test showed a -2.6 in my lower lumbar spine area. I have NEVER had back pain. I took my first pill and had no problems on the first day. (this was the 35 mg weekly dose) On the second day my back began to ache.
However after a few days the aching stopped, but then I had severe chest pain. Also at night I would get acid reflux and night sweats this all starated around the second dose. The acid reflux and night sweats continued and got worse. I also became very cold natured, even though the weather was warm. After a month or so I began to get weaker and weaker and VERY shaky. I took these pills until mid March and then stopped. The acid reflux, heart burn and night sweats have stopped, I am slowly starting to get my strength back and the severe shakeyness has almost discontinuted. I am wondering how long the "bad" effects of this medication stays in the system. I was not and am not on any other medication, as I am not in bad health and had none of these symptons before taking the Actonel. I do not want to be sick and miserable so that if I live to be 85 and fall, I won't be in as much pain! Believe me, when I say this medication made me REALLY sick.. has it made anyone else this sick?!
Robin Actonel PAIN! May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.6667 I am a healthy, active 53-yr-old woman.I've been taking Actonel for 6 weeks and until now the only side effect I've had has been a little stomach queasiness, which was tolerable. Four days ago,however, I developed some lower back pain and muscle pain from my waist down into my thighs. Each day the pain has gotten worse until today I can barely walk. Just shifting my weight causes extreme pain. I will not take any more of this drug. However, does anyone have any idea how long this side effect may last? I will be calling my doctors for help with the pain tomorrow (Monday), although I don't know if they will believe me that Actonel is the cause. I feel as though I am suddenly crippled. I would appreciate any input you can give me. Joyce Actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.5000 I took my first dose of 35mg Actonel this past Saturday morning. I had almost nothing in the way of a reaction the first day. However, the next day I thought I had the flu. I had body aches everywhere, particularly in the neck (like a stiff neck), back & legs and headache. I went from feeling feverish to freezing. The overall general feeling of achey bones. I took Advil all day to keep me going. Finally I gave in to it and slept for 9 straight hours, which is about 3 hours longer than I normally do. I am really concerned about taking this medication again next week if I can expect the same reaction every time. Can anyone else tell me if your body eventually becomes accustom to the drug? I hope P & G reads these comments. Rose No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.5000 I have been taking Actonel, 35mg. once weekly for about ten months in response to a T-score on my bone density test. Thus far, I am aware of no side effects but neither do I know if the pill is doing anything to rebuild bone loss. I suppose that is something I will have to ask my doctor when I return in another month. Sharon join pain and sore muscle May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.5000
I have been on actonel for 5 months.for one month now I have been off of it. I was having joint and muscle pain and weekness. I want to know how long will it be before I know if the drug has been causing this ?Mary Anna No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.5000 I am on my second dose of Actonel 35 and I have had many symptons. The first week I had some indigestion and body aches that lasted for several days. After I took the second dose I noticed severe lower back pain. My doctor told me not to take it anymore and to come into his office in 14 days. Gail premenopausal May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.3333 I am a 41 year old female who has been prescribed Actonel. All the info I've read indicates this drug for menopausal women. Is this drug safe for me since I still have regular periods? Also, am I to continue to take Calcium and Magnesium supplements. I know I should avoid taking them for at least 30 minutes after Actonel but need to know if I should take them at all. 58 and counting Actonel & Pain May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.3333 Recently I have been experiencing extreme arm and some leg pains. I've been x-rayed, had an MRI, and blood tests for cancer, polymyalgia, Parkinson's, MS, RA, Lupus, and much more - all negative. My GYN doctor just told me to stop taking Actonel as he's had patients who developed severe arm and leg pain from using it. I wish someone would have warned me of this side effect sooner! I've just spend hours and hours, not to mention thousands of dollars, all of which could have avoided. Jean numbness in hands May 12th, 2008 Rating: 4.0000 I started taking Actonel in March 2004. Since that time my hands, one or both, get numb and/or have a tingling sensation when I am in bed.
Sometimes my hands start to feel numb at other times during the day, but mostly in bed.
I told my doctor, and she kept saying "This is not a side effect of Actonel." Another doctor prescribed a stress test, which I did not get, because my hands were not numb and tingly before I took Actonel.
Now I have stopped taking Actonel in hope that my hands will get better.
If anyone else has had similar experiences, please let me know.
Thank you.Jean joint pain May 12th, 2008 Rating: 3.9000 I was on the daily dose for over a year with no problems. Last October my Dr. put me on the weekly doze. About a month later I thought I had pulled a muscle in my shoulder. My shoulder kept getting worse with pain in my shoulder and the muscles in my upper arm. If I try to reach real far or if I try to lift something I have severe pain in my upper arm and then it goes up into my shoulder and down my arm. I have been doing massage theapy for several months and it had been getting better until it started in the other shoulder. I even tried the Chiropractor with no results that's when the subject of Actonel came up. I have not taken Actonel for 3 weeks and I have not seen any results. Can anyone tell me how long it took being off the drug before they started seeing relief. I am concerned that it might be something else and not the drug. Anonymous No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 3.8333 you did not mention liver problems as one of the side effects Pat Brown muscle weakness May 12th, 2008 Rating: 3.8182 I am 60 years old. I am taking Actonel and I am excersizing every day for about 30 min. I walk and use various weight equipment at our YMCA, yet I am losing muscle strength daily. Could Actonel be causing this loss of strength? Eileen Joint Pain May 12th, 2008 Rating: 3.6538 I lifted a heavy box on June 8, 2003 from the back of my station-
wagon (50-75 lbs) My left shoulder and arm hurt at the time but then it
eased off. Then I hit my funny bone in my left arm which hurt terribly.
I went to my doctor who had my arm x-rayed and it came back normal.
I stopped Actonel for two weeks and it seemed to ease off. When I went
back on Actonel the pain returned with a vengeance. I cannot sleep on
my right or left side. My left arm goes numb and pins and needles
feeling right down to my wrist and pinky finger and the finger next to it.
Should I stop taking Actonel for a while to see if it is a reaction as I
am taking Ibuprofin (800 mg) for the pain.
Thank you for your immediate reply EileenFern PMS headache relief May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.8333 I am 55 but am still having occasional periods, the most recent being about 5-6 weeks ago. I was diagnosed with Osteopenia 2 or 3 years ago and given a prescription for 5 mg Actonel daily. The first "side effect" I noticed was that I stopped getting a certain migraine headache which had occurred quite regularly just preceding my period, and also up to 2 weeks before miscarriages. I ran out of Actonel several months before my next doctor appointment, and didn't understand that I was supposed to call for more, so I stopped taking it, and in about 3 months the PMS headache returned. It went away again when I resumed the Actonel.
About 3 months ago a different doctor put me on Lipitor, which I took for 5 weeks. I have Lupus which makes me tired most of the day, but until I took the Lipitor, I would have a little energy for a few hours in the mornings. The Lipitor seemed to make me sleep longer and less restfully, and I couldn't hardly drag myself out of bed in the mornings. When I did get up I didn't want to wait 30 minutes to eat or lie down again, so I stopped taking the Actonel again. When I realized what the Lipitor was doing to me, I stopped taking it, but I didn't feel good enough to resume the Actonel for these last 2 months. This last 10 days, I have even had such extreme hunger at various times of the day, especially in the mornings that I have also been reluctant to resume the Actonel until a couple of days ago when I felt the beginnings of the PMS headache. I took the Actonel and the headache never materialized. I took it again today and suppose I will keep taking it unless something else happens to change my mind.
There are things I want to know about Actonel, however:
How does it work? Does it act upon the digestive system to make Calcium more easily absorbed? Does it act upon the hormones that draw Calcium from the bones, to limit their effect? Does it strengthen other hormones that draw Calcium to the bones? In what way does it act in the body to reach the desired end?
Jan actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.6667 I've been taking actonel daily dose for about 3 weeks now, with no side effects. It's bothersome to read the fact that after 2 years a person would not have improvement in BMD? I had originally been given a Rx for the weekly, which did upset my stomach, switched to the daily 5mg, no problems so far. Judy Actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.5385 I have been taking Actonel now for 3 weeks and for some back pain and tiredness, I have had no side effects from the drug. I take 35mg once a week. I am concerned with all the other women and there side effects. Is this a safe drug? c.c. acne May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.0000
I have been taking actonel for 6 weeks. For the last 4 weeks, I have had facial acne. I haven't had acne since I was 17 and now I am 54. Is there a connection between actonel and acne? No other medications have been added or deleted, nor have my eating habits changed, therefore, I wonder if I am having an alergic reaction to actonel. Please help.
terry actonel/vioxx May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.0000 I am a 61 year old female and have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, stenosis of the spine and several other spinal problems. I have been given both drugs mentioned above, actonel/vioxx. I'm not even sure it's a good idea to take both together, no one ever said. Also, I'm still having quite a bit of severe back pain and sometimes my stomach feels like my insides are going to fall out, the only relief i get is to wear a belt type binder to hold it firm. I've been taking these pills for several months and don't seem to see any great relief. what is the purpose,then. Does anybody out there know of anything that has helped so I can ask my doctor? Sylvia Williams Actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.0000 I took Actonel only once. The first day, I had nausea. The second day I had pain in my back and severe stomach pain. I will never take it again. I am going to take 1800 mg calcium and 400 mg of D and exercise.
Why can't they invent a medicine that doesn't make us sick or feel awful !!!!rita gawrecki actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 2.0000 I have been taking actonel for about 3 years. Besides GERD and many other intestinal problems(hiatel hernia, diverticulosis etc.) I also take a multitude of other medicines methotextrate, prilosec baby aspirin, three meds for high blood pressure.Have never had a problem except with the awful packaging of this product (actonel), it is impossible to get open. My rhematologist recommends taking all my meds on an empty stomach, then eat. As a result my stomach no longer hurts after ingesting all my pills. I am 65 years old and have been diagnosed with many types of arthritis. Eileen Actonel /Fosamax Side Effects May 12th, 2008 Rating: 1.3333
I am 55 and for the past three months have been on Actonel, and the past two weeks on Fosamax (both once a week) for "slight" osteopenia in hip and spine. I too have experienced muscle and joint pain, muscle burning and some flu-like muscle weakness. I thought these symptoms were brought on by too much exercising but this has been going on for more than a month and I can't get relief from ibuprofen or Flexiril. My hip muscle burns so badly that the internist sent me for x-rays. It then occurred to me that it could be the Actonel or Fosamax so I checked the Internet to find out about side effects. Sure enough, the symptoms I'm describing were there. My x-rays revealed calcification on hip muscle and possibly in the gluteal muscle. I'm headed to an orthopedic MD for an evaluation. I will not take my next dose of Fosamax, and probably will not resume the treatment because I wonder if the drugs promoted the calcification--I don't believe in coincidences. I'm curious to hear what the orthopedic MD has to say.mm No Subject May 12th, 2008 Rating: 1.0000 I am so glad to see that I am not just imagining the awful pain and stiffness of my joints. I am 54 and I,too, have been on either Fosamax or Actonel for the past couple of years. I noticed the first year when I went off of Fosamax because of some gastric ulcer problems, my arthralgia improved within about 2 months..didn't really relate it to lack of Fosamax. Then began taking Actonel several months ago, and within 3 months this muscular and joint pain began. It has nothing to do with a change in activity/exercise. Went to my orthopedist and he found a swelling in my deltoids in my arms, but couldn't explain why. Sent me to a physical therapist and after about 6 weeks of that pain improved somewhat, but not completely. Also, since I AM menopausal, I just assumed my extreme hotflashes and night sweats were due to my lack of estrogen, but after reading the comments I have to wonder if the Actonel makes it worse. I am tempted to discontinue for a few weeks and see if there is an improvement. My doctor will have a fit because I already show osteopenia on my bond density (slight),can't take estrogen, and have a strong family history of osteoporosis.I take calcium supplements an eat and drink dairy. Calcium level is fine. What is a person to do? I feel like I am 80 years old, but keep on moving and going with a lot of pain. esther results. May 12th, 2008 Rating: 0.8333
I bless this drug --no more painn fLJ Actonel - pain May 12th, 2008 Rating: 0.5789 I and 52 with osteoporosis in the hips and osteopenia in the the spine. Took fosamax for one year and some improvment made. Fosamax caused bone and muscle pain but Doctor said nothing could be done about it. Switched to Actonel and have taken it for one year. I suffer every day from pain in my back, stiffness all over. When I lay down or sit it takes time to stand up - I feel like an old lady. I never felt like this before taking the medication. I have always been active - snowboarding, golf, hiking, camping and only when I started this medication I started complaining like an old crabby lady. I feel robbed but I won't give up. I still golf, snowboard, camp, hike, etc. but not free from pain, stiffness and generally not feeling well. I hope these types of medication improve someday so that there are no bad side effects. Terri Lynn actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 0.5625 I was initally prescribed fosomax, after taking it for 3 weeks I called my doctor and refused tp take anymore of it. The fosomax created muscle pain in my shoulders, neck and back so severe that I couldn't sleep.
He changed me to actonel and after taking it for 3 weeks I have very extreme heartburn and can't sleep.
I didn't have any of these problems before taking the medication. I was diagnosed with osteporosis and my doctor insist that I need treatment.
The quality of life is unbearable with constant heartburn. How can this be good for me when it is so painful.Debbie Actonel May 12th, 2008 Rating: 0.5000 Saturday morning I took my first Actonel weekly pill. Saturday night my neck hurt so bad the only relief was when my daughter massaged it until I fell asleep but did not stay asleep due to pain. Sunday morning, not only my neck was still hurting but my entire back, hips, and sholders hurt. Up until now, Ibuprofen was all I ever needed and always helped any kind of pain. It had no effect. I did try Tylenol Arthritis and it did take the edge off so I could function. But 10 hours later, I was again in severe pain. I'm faxing my doctor a letter. Cathie Damron Actonel lingering effects May 12th, 2008 Rating: 0.3333 58 y/o female with hx of good health. Took daily Actonel for 28 days in Jan 2003. Experienced aching teeth, frozen jaw, double vision, numbness of forehead, tongue, chin, cheeks, neck, and extremities. Persistant headaches, irregular heartbeat and esophogus spasms. Neck and spine pain. Sensation of being cold throughout my body and my skin was burning. STOPPED TAKING ACTONEL!! After 5 months I started to feel like my health was coming back and I again had some energy. RESUMED TAKING ACTONEL in Jun 2003. Within two or three days all of the above symptoms began to return. STOPPED ACTONEL AGAIN....AND FOREVER. Now, a year plus later I continue to have problems with no energy, low immunity, and my lower legs constantly feel like they are frozen. I've had CAT scans, EMGs, nerve conductions, MRIs, heart tests, spinal taps and much more. My internist, 3 neurologists and a cardiologist find nothing wrong with me. I am anxious to learn if anyone else has experienced similar problems AND have you found a way to get rid of the numbness and tingling. I'm becoming desperate for an answer and tired of proping my feet on an electric space heater when the house temperature is 75 degrees. Of the 48 or so adverse reactions listed on the prescription packing list, I could identify with roughly 36 of them. While my doctor does not have knowledge of widespread problems with Actonel, she too, is convinced my problems all relate to having taken the Actonel. I would have never known the reason for the problems if I had not stopped taking the drug for four months and then starting it again. I am anxious for anyone who has suffered as I have to please respond to this message, especially if you have found a way to have these dreaded symptoms relieved. It is a living hell to have your legs feel like two slabs of frozen meat when the temperature is in the 70's.