Boniva

What is Boniva?
IBANDRONATE (Boniva) reduces calcium loss from bones. It helps to prevent bone loss and increases production of normal healthy bone in patients with osteoporosis. Boniva is used to treat other conditions that place someone at risk for bone loss, including after menopause in females. How do I receive this medicine? Boniva is given through a needle placed in a vein in your arm. The infusion into the vein lasts 15-30 seconds. Our professional staff are knowledgeable about this medicine and how to give it. Boniva is given every 3 months. What if I miss a dose? It is important not to miss a dose. Notify our office if you are unable to keep an appointment so that it can be rescheduled as soon as possible.

What drug(s) may interact with Boniva?
* aluminum hydroxide
* antacids
* anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others
* aspirin
* calcium supplements, magnesium supplements
* certain antibiotics given by injection
* some water pills or diuretics such as Bumex®, Demadex®, or Lasix®
* cyclosporine
* iron supplements
* parathyroid hormone or teriparatide
* vitamins with minerals

Tell your doctor or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your doctor before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from receiving Boniva?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
* black or tarry stools
* constant jaw pain, especially burning or cramping
* eye inflammation, pain or change in vision
* pain or difficulty passing urine
* skin rash, itching (hives)
* swelling of the lips, arms, legs, face, tongue, or throat
* vomiting

What should I watch for while taking Boniva?
Low blood levels of phosphorus and calcium can occur but usually do not cause serious problems. Your doctor may order regular blood tests to check for these problems. You may be prescribed calcium and Vitamin D supplements and be asked to meet with a nutritionist to make sure you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. If you get bone pain, or a worsening of bone pain, check with your doctor. However, many patients have improvement in their bone pain during and after treatment with Boniva. For more detailed information about Boniva, visit: www.boniva.com
NOTE: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have questions about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional. Clinical Pharmacology Copyright © 2006/ adapted by Georgia Cancer Specialists