Title: Boniva Ibandronate: A Proven Drug in Postmenopausal Women

BONIVA (ibandronate sodium) is a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate that reduces osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Ibandronate is available under the brand name Boniva. This drug is used for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Dosage and Administration

For treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis the suggested dose of Boniva Ibandronate is one 2.5 mg tablet taken once daily or one 150-mg tablet taken once monthly on the same date each month. The recommended dose of this drug for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis is just the same as for treatment.

To make the most of absorption and clinical benefit, take the drug at least 1 hour before the first food or drink (other than water) of the day or before taking any oral medication or supplementation, including calcium, antacids, or vitamins.

To ease delivery to the stomach and thus limit the possible for esophageal irritation, swallow Boniva Ibandronate tablets whole with a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 oz) in an upright position. Patients should not lie down for 60 minutes after taking BONIVA.

Only plain water should be taken with Boniva Ibandronate. Some mineral waters may have a higher concentration of calcium and thus should be avoided.

Don’t chew or suck the tablet because of a potential for oropharyngeal ulceration.

The 150 mg tablet should be taken on the same date each month.

The patients are warned not to take two 150mg tablets within the same week. If the patient's next scheduled day is only 1 to 7 days away, the patient must wait until their next scheduled day to take their tablet. The patient should then return to taking one BONIVA 150mg tablet every month in the morning of their chosen day, according to their original schedule. Patients should receive supplemental calcium or vitamin D if dietary intake is inadequate.

Drug Interactions: Boniva Ibandronate may have adverse impact with absorption (most notable with some foods, calcium and iron). But there are no known drug interactions with ibandronate.

Side Effects

Boniva Ibandronate is generally safe, with the overall rate of reported side effects being the same as with placebo (a look alike, but inactive tablet). Some of the more common side effects reported include back pain, pain in the arms or legs, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Precaution

• Do not take other medicines, or eat or drink anything but plain water before you take BONIVA and for at least 60 minutes after you take it.
• Do not lie down for at least 60 minutes after you take BONIVA.

Missed dose

If you miss once-a-month dose, and the patient's next scheduled day is more than 7 days away, the patient should take one BONIVA 150 mg tablet in the morning following the date that it is remembered. The patient should then return to taking one 150mg tablet every month in the morning of their chosen day, according to their old schedule.

Overdose

Immediately contact your doctor if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Drink a full glass of milk and call your local poison control center or emergency room right away. Do not make yourself vomit and do not lie down.