Ibandronate sodium (Boniva)

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis should always include a well-balanced diet, adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise, safety precautions for fall prevention, avoidance of tobacco products and limited consumption of alcohol. If osteoporosis is diagnosed, you still must continue to make bone healthy lifestyle choices. However, lifestyle modifications alone are often not enough. Your medical professional may tell you that you need an osteoporosis medication to help stop further bone loss and to reduce your risk for broken bones.

What are the medication options for osteoporosis?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications for osteoporosis prevention and/or treatment including: four bisphosphonate medications: [alendronate sodium [Fosamax], risedronate sodium [Actonel]),  ibandronate sodium [Boniva]), and zoledronic acid (Reclast)], calcitonin-salmon (Miacalcin), estrogen therapy or hormone therapy, raloxifene hydrochloride (Evista), teriparatide (Forteo), Speak to your doctor or medical professional about the medication option that is right for you.

What is ibandronate sodium (Boniva) ?

Ibandronate sodium is the generic name for Boniva (brand name). Boniva is a bisphosphonate medication. It is not a hormone. Boniva works only on the bone and does not affect the heart, breast, uterus or other parts of the body.

What is the approved use for ibandronate sodium (Boniva)?

Ibandronate sodium (Boniva) is FDA-approved for the management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

How is ibandronate sodium (Boniva) usually prescribed?

The FDA has approved ibandronate sodium(Boniva) as a 150mg tablet taken once a month or a 3mg injection given once every 3 months. When taking Boniva, it is recommended to get adequate calcium and vitamin D each day. It also important to follow the universal strategies for promotion of healthy bones.


What are the benefits of ibandronate sodium (Boniva)?

Clinical studies indicate that Boniva increases bone mineral density (BMD) of the existing skeleton and reduces the risk of spine fractures for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. In postmenopausal women with very severe osteoporosis, Boniva reduces the risk of fractures throughout the skeleton. Like all medications, it is important to discuss all of the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication with your medical professional.

What are the side effects of taking ibandronate sodium (Boniva)?

The side effects of oral Boniva may include upset stomach (dyspepsia), pain in the extremities (arms or legs) and diarrhea. Ibandronate sodium tablets may also cause ulcers in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach), heartburn (esophagitis), or difficult/painful swallowing (dysphagia). Heartburn and irritation of the esophagus but can usually be avoided by taking the medication properly. Boniva tablets must be taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with at least 1 cup (240 ml or 8 ounces) of plain (tap) water. Do not take Boniva with any other beverages such as mineral water, juice, milk, coffee or tea. After taking this medication, you must remain upright (in a sitting or standing position) and avoid bending over or lying down for at least 60 minutes.

Injectable Boniva does not have effect the esophagus or stomach and there are no special instructions regarding eating, drinking, or positioning following its use. Ibandronate sodium taken orally or by injection have the potential adverse effect of flu-like symptoms that may last for a few days after taking the medication.

Rarely, dental complications occur when taking bisphosphonate medications,mostly in high-risk patients. It is important to see your dentist for a complete oral examination before starting treatment with any bisphosphonate medication including Boniva. During treatment with a bisphosphonate medication, it is vital to practice good oral hygiene and to continue to see your dentist for regular checkups.and rarely, dental complications that occur mostly in high risk patients. 

Like all medications, it is important to discuss all of the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication with your medical professional. For more information about ibandronate sodium, visit http://www.myboniva.com/myboniva/