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What is Boniva?
Boniva (ibandronate) is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Ibandronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.
Boniva is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in women after menopause.
Boniva may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide..
Before taking Boniva
You should not use Boniva if you are allergic to ibandronate, or if you have low blood levels of calcium (hypocalcemia).
Do not take a Boniva tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least one full hour. Boniva can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 60 minutes after taking a Boniva tablet.
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use Boniva:
a vitamin D deficiency;
kidney disease; or
an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus.
Some people using medicines similar to Boniva have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums.
You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and dental surgery or pre-existing dental problems.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Boniva is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether ibandronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use Boniva?
Use Boniva exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Boniva tablets are taken either once each day or once each month. Boniva intravenous solution is given as an injection into one of your veins once every three (3) months. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional will give you the Boniva injection. The tablets can be taken at home.
Take the Boniva tablet first thing in the morning, at least 1 hour (60 minutes) before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine. If you take a Boniva tablet only once a month, take it on the same day each month and always first thing in the morning.
Take each tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking a Boniva tablet. Do not crush, chew, or suck the Boniva tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
After taking a Boniva tablet, carefully follow these instructions:
Do not lie down or recline for at least 60 minutes after taking Boniva.
Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water.
Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 60 minutes after taking Boniva. It may be best to take
your other medicines at a different time of the day. Talk with your doctor about the best dosing schedule for your other medicines.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Boniva is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Store Boniva tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you take Boniva tablets once daily: If you forget to take this medicine first thing in the morning, do not take it later in the day. Wait until the following morning to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take two (2) tablets in one day.
If you take Boniva tablets once a month: If you forget to take Boniva on your scheduled day, take it first thing in the morning on the day after you remember the missed dose. Then return to your regular monthly schedule on your chosen dose day. If your next scheduled dose is less than 7 days away, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take two (2) tablets in one week.
If you receive Boniva injections once a month: Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your injection.
Boniva side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Boniva and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
chest pain;
difficulty or pain when swallowing;
pain or burning under the ribs or in the back;
new or worsening heartburn;
severe joint, bone, or muscle pain; or
jaw pain, numbness, or swelling.
Less serious Boniva side effects may include:
back pain, headache;
redness or swelling of your eyes;
diarrhea;
flu symptoms;
redness or swelling where the medicine was injected;
nausea or upset stomach; or
pain in your arms or legs.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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