Boniva

The active ingredient in Boniva is ibandronate sodium. It belongs to the drug class called bisphosphonates. For the body to produce new, strong, and healthy bone, bisphosphonates slow down the degradation of existing bone. Boniva contributes to an increase in bone mineral density (BMD). Your risk of vertebral fractures is reduced since stronger bones have a greater BMD.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-approved product labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Boniva. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Boniva:

• One dose of oral Boniva is given each month. Or once every three months, an IV Boniva can be administered as an injection into a vein. The injection needs to be administered by a medical professional, while the tablets can be taken at home.
• The tablet should be taken first thing in the morning, at least sixty minutes before you take any other medications or eat or drink anything. Every month on the same day, take the medication first thing in the morning.
• Drink a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water along with the pill. Avoid using mineral water, juice, soda, tea, or coffee. Take it on an empty stomach.
• A tablet should not be crushed, chewed, or sucked. Eat it whole.
• After consuming a tablet, for a minimum of sixty minutes (one full hour):
• Don't recline or lie down.
• Avoid taking any additional medications, such as antacids, vitamins, or calcium.
• Boniva is just one component of a comprehensive therapy plan that may include calcium and vitamin D supplements, exercise, diet modifications, and bone mineral density tests. Pay strict attention to your doctor's recommendations.

The most common side effects of Boniva include:

• Joint pain.
• Back pain.
• Muscle pain.
• Nausea.
• Indigestion.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Heartburn.
• Tiredness.
• Flu-like symptoms.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Boniva. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Osteonecrosis of the jaw, which is more likely if you get a tooth pulled, have dental implants, have dental surgery, or have an oral infection.
• Irritation and ulcers in your stomach or esophagus with symptoms such as trouble swallowing, unusual pain with swallowing, chest pain, or new or worsening heartburn.
• Allergic reaction to the medication.
• Increased risk of thigh bone fracture.
• Low blood calcium levels.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Boniva. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Boniva, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Severe kidney disease.
• Low levels of calcium (hypocalcemia).
• Esophageal issues or are unable to stand or sit up for at least 60 minutes, do not take a Boniva pill. Ibandronate may result in severe esophageal or stomach issues. After taking this medication, you must remain upright for at least an entire hour.
• Trouble swallowing.
• A dental issue (before using Boniva, you might need a dental examination).
• Kidney problems.
• Any illness that causes your body to have trouble absorbing nutrients from food (malabsorption).
• Jaw pain or jaw problems.
• Cancer or have had chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids.
• Anemia (low red blood cells).

• Problems with your esophagus.
• Unable to sit or stand up straight for at least an hour following medicine administration.
• Low calcium levels in the blood.

Boniva starts preventing or treating osteoporosis immediately. However, you most likely won't be aware of Boniva's effects on your body. This is because Boniva gradually stops or prevents the deterioration of your bones.

Your doctor will likely measure your bone mineral density (BMD) to ensure Boniva is working for you. The BMD test may not reveal improvements in bone strength for around six months.

When Boniva is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Aspirin.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Corticosteroids.

You will typically take a 150 mg tablet once a month on the same day.

For the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, ibandronate (Boniva) can also be given as an intravenous (IV) infusion that is given by a medical professional once every three months.

Boniva tablets: Do not take a pill later in the day if you forget to take it first thing in the morning on the day you were supposed to. Do not take the missed dose until the following morning. Then, on the day of your dose, resume your usual monthly routine.

Injections of Boniva: If you are unable to attend your scheduled injection, contact your physician for instructions.

Store Boniva at room temperature and out of reach of children.

Hoffman La Roche is the manufacturer of Boniva.

There are lower cost generics available of Boniva.

Always consult your doctor before stopping Boniva to find out if it's safe and suitable for your particular circumstances. They may evaluate your bone health and fracture risk.

Boniva is only approved for use in women who have gone through menopause.

It is not known if Boniva is found in breast milk or what effects it can have. This medication is not approved for women who can become pregnant.