Osteoporosis and you.

Osteoporosis is a widespread disease. In fact, 1 out of 2 women over 50 will suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime according to the 2004 Report of the Surgeon General.

Yet many women don’t even know they have osteoporosis. So whether you’ve been diagnosed with it or not, learning more about bone loss and bone health is the first step in prevention and treatment.

During the first 5 years after reaching menopause, a woman can lose an average of 10% of her bone mass, which may increase her risk of suffering an osteoporosis-related fracture. Because bone loss can silently progress, many women are unaware that they have osteoporosis even if they have fractures in their spine.

ACTONEL is a prescription medication to treat and 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.