Ibandronate (Systemic)

Brand Names : Boniva

Proper Use of This Medicine

Take ibandronate with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water on an empty stomach . It should be taken in the morning at least 60 minutes before any food, beverage, or other medicines. Food and beverages, such as mineral water, coffee, tea, or juice, will decrease the amount of ibandronate absorbed by the body. Waiting longer than 60 minutes will allow more of the drug to be absorbed. Medicines such as antacids, calcium or vitamin supplements will also decrease the absorption of ibandronate.

Do not lie down for 60 minutes after taking ibandronate . This will help ibandronate reach your stomach faster. It will also help prevent irritation to your esophagus.

Your doctor may recommend that you eat a balanced diet with an adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D (found in milk or other dairy products). However, do not take any food, beverages, or calcium or vitamin supplements within 60 minutes or longer of taking ibandronate. To do so may keep this medicine from working properly.

Dosing - The dose of ibandronate will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of ibandronate. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis (thinning of bone)
    • Adults - 2.5 mg once a day in the morning, taken at least 60 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication. You should take ibandronate with six to eight ounces of plain water.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis (thinning of bone)
    • Adults - 2.5 mg once a day in the morning, taken at least 60 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication. You should take ibandronate with six to eight ounces of plain water.
    • Children - Dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, do not take it later in the day. Resume your schedule the next morning. Do not double doses.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Keep the medicine from freezing. Do not refrigerate.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Ask your health care professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.