Clodronic Acid is used to treat bone diseases that occur together with certain types of cancers.
Clodronic Acid helps to prevent calcium from leaking out of your bones. It helps to strengthen your bones and reduce the chances of getting fractures and bone pain. It also helps to lower the level of calcium in the bloodstream -- this helps to prevent metabolic disturbances.
Take Clodronic Acid exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Swallow it whole. Do not suck, chew, crush or open the tablet or capsule.
If you have been prescribed a Once-a-day dose of Clodronic Acid take it first thing in the morning, upon arising for the day. Take with a full glass of plain water. Do not take with any other drink or food. Take it in a sitting or standing position. Do not take it while lying down and do not lie down for at least 1 hour after swallowing it. Do not eat or drink anything except plain water during this one hour.
If you have been prescribed a Twice-a-day dose of Clodronic Acid take the first dose as described above. The second dose should be taken between meals, more than 2 hours after and 1 hour before eating, drinking (other than plain water), or taking any other medicines by mouth.
It is important to follow these instructions carefully. Clodronic Acid may cause severe irritation to the gullet (food pipe) and stomach if not taken exactly as instructed. Taking Clodronic Acid in the manner described here will help to minimise any gastric irritation that it may cause. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Clodronic Acid must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Clodronic Acid even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have gastric problems such as gastritis (inflammation of the lining of the stomach), as Clodronic Acid may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Clodronic Acid if you are taking other similar medicines such as pamidronate, alendronate, risedronate or zoledronate.
Inform your doctor if you:
- have kidney disease
- have difficulty in swallowing
- have disease of the gullet (food pipe), heartburn (food or acid from stomach backs up into your mouth, leaving a sour or bitter taste), stomach ulcers
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are undergoing treatment for cancer or going for an operation, including minor operations and dental work, always inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Clodronic Acid.
This medicine may cause your jaw bones to weaken. You may experience dental problems such as jaw swelling and pain, loose or shaky teeth. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene while being treated with this medicine. Your doctor may recommend that you have a dental check-up before starting you on this medicine. Inform your doctor and dentist if you:
- develop a tooth infection
- develop pain, numbness or discomfort in your teeth or gums
- have a tooth extraction
You will need to have regular blood and urine tests to check your calcium levels and kidney function. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Clodronic Acid may cause any of the following side effects: joint or muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, bloating, flatulence (wind) and diarrhoea. It may also cause rashes.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Clodronic Acid if you are taking other similar medicines such as pamidronate, alendronate, risedronate or zoledronate.
Inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following any of these medicines:
- NSAIDs (medicine for pain and inflammation) e.g. ibuprofen, aspirin
- antibiotics e.g. amikacin, gentamicin
- medicine for cancer especially estramustine
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clodronic Acid.
You should wait for at least 2 hours before or after taking Clodronic Acid before taking any other medicines or supplements e.g. antacids, calcium supplements..
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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