Ibandronic Acid injection is used to strengthen thin and weak bones in people who have or are at risk of osteoporosis. It helps to stop the loss of bone and also helps to increase bone mass.
Ibandronic Acid injection is also used to treat bone diseases that occur together with certain types of cancers.
Ibandronic Acid injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
Ibandronic Acid injection is usually given once every 3 months. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to be given Ibandronic acid Injection.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
If you miss your injection, arrange to have it administered as soon as possible. Your next injection should be scheduled 3 months after the date of your last injection.
If you often miss your scheduled injection, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have low levels of calcium in the blood as Ibandronic Acid injection may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease or kidney stones.
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 Ibandronic acid.
Ibandronic Acid injection 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 Ibandronic acid. 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.
Ensure that you take enough calcium and vitamin D while being treated with Ibandronic Acid injection. Your doctor will advise you about how much of these supplements to take.
Ibandronic Acid injection may cause any of the following side effects: pain, irritation, redness, swelling at the injection site, flu-like symptoms, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea, headache, stomach pain, back pain, as well as pain of the muscle, bone or joints. 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.
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.
Store the injection in its original carton and protect from light. Light may cause the medication to lose some of its effectiveness. If the injection changes colour, do not use it.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.