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What Are Side Effects of Actonel?

Actonel is a prescription medication that is often used for the bone disease known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that is characterized by bone loss and the bones becoming significantly thinner and, therefore, more prone to fracture. The chances of a person having osteoporosis greatly increases with age. Actonel comes with some risk of side effects, similar to most other medications and dietary supplements.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • Actonel has a handful of common side effects. These side effects are seen as a routine part of the medicine, since they usually fade away within a few days. However, if they do not go away, it might be a good idea to seek medical help. These side effects include headache, backache, constipation, gas, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, upset stomach, moderate stomachache and joint pain.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Although rare, serious side effects are also a reality for Actonel users. In situations where serious side effects arise, it is vital to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible.These side effects include swelling of the legs or arms, extreme heartburn, bloody or dark stools, pain or swelling of the jaw, throwing up or coughing up blood, painful or difficult swallowing, mouth sores, difficult or painful urinating, abnormal redness or eye pain, changes in vision, light sensitivity, extreme joint, muscle or bone pain, and lingering or extreme sore throat.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Some people experience allergic reactions to Actonel. Should this situation occur, it is very important to get emergency medical assistance. Some symptoms of allergic reaction to Actonel include swelling of the face, mouth, lips and tongue; itchiness; chest tightness; difficulty breathing; skin rash; and hives.

    Caution

    • Potential Actonel users must be very cautious. You must inform your doctor of your entire medical history, including any current conditions that you might have, especially if you have vitamin D deficiency, hypocalcemia, esophageal or stomach ulcers, or kidney disease.

    Overdose

    • If you take more than the appropriate dosage of Actonel, you risk the chance of overdosing. If you think that you have overdosed on this medicine, you must seek out emergency medical care. Some signs of Actonel overdose include the facial muscles feeling very tight, stomachache, heartburn, nausea, tingling or numbness, muscle cramps, convulsions, abnormal behaviors or thoughts, irritability and diarrhea.

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