Risedronate (risedronate sodium) is a type of medicine called a bisphosphonate. It helps your bones stay as strong as possible.
It can help if you have or are at risk of getting a health condition called osteoporosis. This is where your bones get weaker and more likely to break.
Osteoporosis can happen for many reasons, but you're more likely to get it if you're a woman who has been through the menopause or if you take steroids, such as prednisolone, for a long time. Some types of cancer treatment can also increase your risk of getting osteoporosis.
Risedronate can also help people who have Paget's disease of bone. This weakens your bones and they can become deformed. Risedronate helps to reduce these bone changes, reduce pain and make your bones stronger and less likely to break.
Risedronate comes as tablets and is only available on prescription.
Key facts
- Most people take risedronate as a weekly tablet, but those with Paget's disease of bone may take it daily.
- Risedronate usually starts to work after 2 weeks, but it may take up to 6 months to fully protect your bones, and 3 to 6 months for your symptoms to improve if you're taking it for Paget's disease.
- Take risedronate first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you have anything to eat or drink and before you take any other medicines.
- Side effects can include constipation, diarrhoea and feeling sick.
- Risedronate can sometimes affect your jawbone, so it's important to look after your teeth and have regular dental check-ups. If you need dental treatment, tell your dentist that you're taking risedronate.