Ibandronate Injection
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Ibandronate Injection
What is this medicine?
IBANDRONATE (i BAN droh nate) slows calcium loss from bones. It treats osteoporosis. It may be used in other people at risk for bone loss.
How should I use this medicine?
This drug is injected into a vein. It is given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic setting.
A special MedGuide will be given to you before each treatment. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your health care provider about the use of this drug in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care provider as soon as possible:
allergic reactions (skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
bone pain
infection (fever, chills, cough, sore throat, pain or trouble passing urine)
jaw pain, especially after dental work
joint pain
kidney injury (trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine)
low calcium levels (fast heartbeat; muscle cramps or pain; pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet; seizures)
muscle pain
pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected
redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care provider if they continue or are bothersome):
back pain
constipation
eye irritation, itching, or pain
general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms
heartburn (burning feeling in chest, often after eating or when lying down)
sore throat
stomach pain
What may interact with this medicine?
teriparatide
What if I miss a dose?
Keep appointments for follow-up doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your health care provider if you are unable to keep an appointment.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
bleeding disorder
cancer
dental disease
infection (fever, chills, cough, sore throat, pain or trouble passing urine)
kidney disease
low levels of calcium or other minerals in the blood
low levels of vitamin D in the blood
low red blood cell counts
receiving steroids like dexamethasone or prednisone
an unusual or allergic reaction to ibandronate, other drugs, foods, dyes or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your health care provider for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this drug.
Some people who take this drug have severe bone, joint, or muscle pain. This drug may also increase your risk for jaw problems or a broken thigh bone. Tell your health care provider right away if you have severe pain in your jaw, bones, joints, or muscles. Tell you health care provider if you have any pain that does not go away or that gets worse.
Tell your dentist and dental surgeon that you are taking this drug. You should not have major dental surgery while on this drug. See your dentist to have a dental exam and fix any dental problems before starting this drug. Take good care of your teeth while on this drug. Make sure you see your dentist for regular follow-up appointments.
You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this drug. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care provider.
You may need blood work done while you are taking this drug.
Updated:  
November 13, 2020