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ETIDRONATE/CALCIUM CARBONATE-ORAL

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GENERIC NAME: ETIDRONATE/CALCIUM CARBONATE - ORAL (eh-TIDD-row-nate/CAL-see-um CAR-bow-nate)

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This combination medication is used to treat and/or prevent the development of "soft bones", also known as osteoporosis, in women who have already experienced their "change of life" (menopause). It is also used to prevent other forms of osteoporosis (e.g., corticosteroid-induced type). Osteoporosis is a common medical condition in women after experiencing menopause. The bones lose some strength (decreased bone density), and fractures are more common. This product contains one medicine and one mineral: etidronate (a bisphosphonate medicine) which helps maintain proper bone metabolism; and calcium, a mineral which is needed to build and maintain healthy bones.

OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for other medical conditions affecting the bones (e.g., Paget's disease).

HOW TO USE: You will take the etidronate portion of this medication for the first two weeks, then the calcium portion for the remainder of a 3 month cycle; then the cycle is repeated. If any of the information is unclear, consult your pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with a full glass (6-8 oz or 180-240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. After taking etidronate, do not lie down for at least 30 minutes. Avoid taking the etidronate portion of this product within 2 hours of food or any products containing iron, magnesium, calcium, or aluminum (e.g., antacids, laxatives, vitamins). Doing so may interfere with the absorption of the etidronate into your bloodstream (see Drug Interactions section). The calcium portion of this product may be taken with food. Use of vitamin D is also recommended, as it will aid in calcium absorption into your bloodstream. Consult your doctor to determine your daily calcium and vitamin D requirements. This product works gradually over time. It is very important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with osteoporosis do not feel sick.

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, nausea, headache, stomach upset, gas, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Promptly tell your doctor if any of these side effects occur: leg cramps, joint pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: vomiting, stomach pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, swelling in the mouth/tongue, trouble breathing. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

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