Risedronate: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Risedronate is a bisphosphonate for bone strength. It is a prescription medicine used for osteoporosis and Paget's disease of bone. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 8 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Risedronate works
Risedronate binds to the surface of bone and slows down osteoclasts, the cells that break old bone down. As bone loss slows, the bone-building cells can keep pace, so bone density gradually improves and bones become less likely to break.
What is Risedronate used for?
- Osteoporosis and Paget's disease of bone
Risedronate is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in women after the menopause and in men, and to protect the bones of people taking steroid medicines long term. By strengthening bone it lowers the risk of fractures of the spine and hip. It is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone, a condition in which bone is broken down and rebuilt abnormally.
Side effects of Risedronate
Some people notice stomach symptoms when taking Risedronate. Common side effects include:
- Heartburn or stomach pain
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Joint, muscle or bone pain
Stop taking it and see a doctor for pain or difficulty when swallowing, chest pain or new heartburn. Also report jaw pain, loose teeth or a sore in the mouth that does not heal, new pain in the thigh, hip or groin, or ear pain or discharge.
Precautions and warnings
- Take it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of plain water, at least 30 minutes before food, drinks or other medicines, and stay upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards.
- Do not take calcium, iron, antacids or milk at the same time, as they stop it being absorbed; keep up a good intake of calcium and vitamin D at other times of day.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, low blood calcium, or problems with your oesophagus or swallowing.
- Have regular dental check-ups and tell your dentist you take it before any dental treatment.
- It is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Risedronate
What is the price of Risedronate in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Risedronate products currently in stock range from Rs 511 to Rs 1,920 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Redrona 5mg Tablet at Rs 511. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Risedronate are available in Pakistan?
Risedronate is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Redrona (Bosch Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Dronate (Martin Dow Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Risonate (Shaigan Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Valetta (Wilshire Laboratories Ltd), Atconate (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Freal (Genix Pharma Ltd), Risofos (Hansel) and Azebone (Pharmix).Do I need a prescription for Risedronate?
Yes. Risedronate is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Risedronate be used during pregnancy?
It is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Are all Risedronate brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Risedronate in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Risedronate brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 12 products containing Risedronate from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
