SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, bone pain or leg cramps may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to this medication. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Very unlikely but report promptly: fever, chills, persistent sore throat, easy bruising/bleeding. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness or fainting, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: any allergies, kidney problems, ulcers (peptic ulcers), other bone problems (osteomalacia). Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. This product is not recommended for use in children.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially of: tetracyclines, quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin). This drug may interfere with certain bone scan tests. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, and numbness and tingling of the fingers.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects or response to treatment. To strengthen bones, a diet containing adequate calcium and vitamin D is important. Weight bearing exercise is also beneficial. Consult your doctor or pharmacist.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.