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Etidronate Oral Tablet (ETIDRONATE DISODIUM - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • bone disease
  • bone strength
  • cancer

Generic Name: Etidronate Disodium

Instructions

Take the medicine on an empty stomach.

Do not eat for at least 2 hours before and 2 hours after taking this medicine.

Sit or stand upright for 30 minutes after taking the medicine. Do not lie down.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Do not take any medicine containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, bismuth, zinc or iron (such as antacids, vitamins, quinapril, didanosine, sucralfate) for 2 hours before or 2 hours after this medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • severe or persistent bone, joint or jaw pain
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • flu-like symptoms
  • persistent heartburn
  • muscle pain
  • dark, tarry stool
  • difficulty swallowing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.