The bone density scan.
The best way to get a glimpse of your bone health is with a DXA scan (also known as a bone density scan). The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends getting a DXA scan if you’re a woman under 65 and past menopause with at least one risk factor. In fact, all women over 65 should get one regardless of risk factors.
What to expect
A DXA scan is easy, safe, and more importantly, non-invasive (which means you don’t feel anything). All you have to do is lie on a scanning machine and a mechanical arm will pass over your body, scanning your bone density.
Your results may not be available right away, so be sure to follow
up with your doctor to discuss your test results. If you’re diagnosed
with osteoporosis, make sure you ask about your level of fracture
risk and your potential treatment options.
How to prepare for your bone density scan:
- You can eat and drink regularly
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- Don't wear jewelry or clothing with metal hardware
Why you need to understand your results:
After your DXA scan, you’ll get your "T-score". This number helps your doctor determine if you have osteoporosis, as shown below:
ACTONEL is for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Your doctor may also prescribe ACTONEL to help prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Important Safety Information for
ACTONEL® (risedronate sodium) tablets
You should not take Actonel if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, if you have low blood calcium (hypocalcemia), have kidneys that work poorly, or cannot stand or sit upright for 30 minutes.
Stop taking Actonel and tell your doctor right away if you experience difficult or painful swallowing, chest pain, or severe or continuing heartburn, as these may be signs of serious upper digestive problems. Follow dosing instructions carefully to lower the chance of these events occurring.
Side effects may include stomach pain, upset stomach, or back, muscle, bone or joint pain, sometimes severe. Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects, or if you have questions about Actonel. Promptly tell your doctor if you develop dental problems, as serious jawbone problems have been reported rarely.
Please see ACTONEL Patient Information.
