Stop using Actonel if:

Stop using risedronate and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: chest pain; difficulty or pain when swallowing; pain or burning under the ribs or in the back; new or worsening heartburn; severe joint, bone, or muscle pain; jaw pain, numbness.

Do not take two different strengths of Actonel tablet at the same time.

If you take Actonel only once a week, take it on the same day and time each week.

Do not crush, chew, or suck the Actonel tablet. Swallow the pill whole. The enteric coated pill has a special coating to protect your throat and stomach. Breaking the pill will damage this coating.

If you need to have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist ahead of time that you are using Actonel. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. Visit your doctor regularly.

Actonel is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Actonel will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether risedronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are taking Actonel.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Actonel and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• chest pain;
• difficulty or pain when swallowing;
• pain or burning under the ribs or in the back;
• new or worsening heartburn;
• severe or ongoing indigestion;
• severe joint, bone, or muscle pain;
• new or unusual pain in your thigh or hip; 
• jaw pain, numbness, or swelling.

Less serious Actonel side effects may include:

• flu symptoms, muscle pain;
• mild stomach pain or upset stomach;
• diarrhea, constipation;
• mild joint or back pain;
• headache.