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Information on Tablets A-Z
Brand Names:DidronelMedication prescribed:Etidronate is used to treat Paget's disease of bone and to treat and prevent certain types of bone problems that may occur after hip replacement or spinal cord injury. Etidronate is in a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by preventing bone breakdown and increasing bone density (thickness).How should this medicine be used:Etidronate comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day on an empty stomach, 2 hours before or after eating (especially milk and other foods high in calcium). To help you remember to take etidronate, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take etidronate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Continue to take etidronate even if you feel well. Do not stop taking etidronate without talking to your doctor.Other uses for this medicine:Etidronate is also used sometimes to treat and prevent osteoporosis caused by steroid treatment. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition. This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.Special precautions:Before taking etidronate, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to etidronate or any other medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects. if you are taking vitamins with mineral supplements or antacids containing calcium, iron, magnesium, or aluminum (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums), take them 2 hours before or after etidronate. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had bone disease caused by vitamin D deficiency (osteomalacia); bowel disease (enterocolitis); or kidney disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking etidronate, call your doctor.Special dietary instructions:It is important you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking etidronate. Your doctor may prescribe supplements if your dietary intake is not enough.If I forget a dose:If you have not already eaten, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you have eaten, take the dose 2 hours after you last ate. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.What side effects:Etidronate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: upset stomach diarrhea bone pain Etidronate may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.What storage conditions:Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.In case of overdose:In case of overdose, call your local poison control center. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911. Symptoms of overdose may include: vomiting diarrhea pain, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet muscle crampsOther information:Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to etidronate. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.More information: Etidronate |