ALVODRONIC

This medicine contains the active ingredient ibandronic acid, which belongs to a group of non-hormonal medicines called bisphosphonates. Ibandronic acid prevents and slows the loss of bone, and it lowers the risk of spine and hip fractures. This loss usually occurs in women after the menopause, and it is called osteoporosis.

Ibandronic acid not only prevents the loss of bone but actually helps to rebuild bone you may have lost by increasing the amount of calcium in the body. You may be prescribed ibandronic acid if you have cancer that has spread to your bones.

Is Ibandronic acid suitable for me?

Ibandronic acid is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to ibandronic acid or other ingredients of this medicine
• if you have certain problems with your gullet
• if you cannot stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes
• if you have low blood calcium
• if you are child or teenager

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have any swallowing or digestive problems
• have high or low blood levels of vitamin D or any other minerals
• have kidney problems
• have a galactose intolerance
• are pregnant or breast-feeding

Ibandronic acid interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Ibandronic acid?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take ibandronic acid exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The usual dose for 50 mg tablet is once a day. 150 mg tablet is taken once a month on a chosen day.
• You should take a tablet as soon as you wake up in the morning, before you eat or drink anything other than water by swallowing it whole. Continue to sit or stand upright for 60 minutes after taking your dose. You must not have anything to eat or drink (other than plain water) during the 60 minutes after taking a dose.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Ibandronic acid side effects?

Like all medicines ibandronic acid can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• headache
• heartburn, stomach pain
• indigestion, nausea,
• diarrhea or constipation
• rash
• pain or stiffness in your muscles, joints, or back
• flu-like symptoms
• fatigue

 Uncommon

• bone pain
• feeling weak
• dizziness
• flatulence

Rare

• swelling of the face, lips and mouth
• itching
• eye pain or inflammation

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.