Atelvia (risedronate) belongs to a group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). Risedronate alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Risedronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.
Atelvia delayed release is a prescription medicine used to treat osteoporosis in women after menopause.
Atelvia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not use Atelvia if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.
Do not take a Atelvia tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Risedronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach).
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Atelvia if you are allergic to risedronate, or if you have:
Do not take a Atelvia tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Risedronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication.
To make sure Atelvia is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
In rare cases, this medicine may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw. Symptoms include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work. The longer you use Atelvia, the more likely you are to develop this condition.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw may be more likely if you have cancer or received chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other risk factors include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre existing dental problem.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
It is not known whether Atelvia will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether risedronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Atelvia?
Take Atelvia exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take the Atelvia tablet once a week, immediately following breakfast with at least 4 ounces of plain water. Take the tablet on the same day and time each week.
Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking a Atelvia tablet.
After taking a Atelvia tablet, carefully follow these instructions:
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Do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes after taking Atelvia.
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Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water.
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Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking Atelvia. It may be best to take your other medicines at a different time of the day. Talk with your doctor about the best dosing schedule for your other medicines.
Do not crush, cut, chew, or suck the Atelvia tablet. Swallow it whole. The pill has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the pill will damage this coating.
If you need to have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist ahead of time that you are using Atelvia. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. You may not need to take Atelvia for longer than 3 to 5 years if you take it for osteoporosis.
Atelvia is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take Atelvia on your scheduled day, take it first thing in the morning on the day after you remember the missed dose. Then return to your regular weekly schedule on your chosen dose day. Do not take two (2) tablets in one day.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. 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.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, muscle cramps, numbness or tingling, tight muscles in your face, seizure (convulsions), irritability, and unusual thoughts or behavior.
What should I avoid while taking Atelvia?
Avoid taking any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking a Atelvia tablet. Some medicines can make it harder for your body to absorb risedronate.
Atelvia side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Atelvia: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Atelvia and call your doctor at once if you have:
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chest pain, new or worsening heartburn;
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difficulty or pain when swallowing;
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pain or burning under the ribs or in the back;
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severe or ongoing indigestion;
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severe joint, bone, or muscle pain;
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new or unusual pain in your thigh or hip;
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jaw pain, numbness, or swelling; or
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severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
Common Atelvia side effects may include:
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mild stomach pain or upset stomach;
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flu symptoms, muscle pain;
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diarrhea, constipation;
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mild joint or back pain; or
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headache.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1 800 FDA 1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Atelvia?
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:
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aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)--ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and others.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with risedronate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
