What is Boniva used for?
Boniva contains the active ingredient ibandronate. It is available as brand and generic which both work in the same way. Boniva can be taken daily or monthly depending on the strength. Boniva is a bisphosphonate that inhibits osteoclast mediated bone resorption which in turn helps to increase bone mass and helps reduce the chance of experiencing bone fractures. It is a prescription medicine used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in women after menopause. The tablet is meant to be swallowed whole. Do not chew or suck the pills. Women are encouraged to take calcium and vitamin D supplements if their diet is inadequate. They should not be taken at the same time as Boniva as calcium interferes with the absorption of the drug. See your doctor regularly to determine if Boniva works for the treatment. Common side effects when you start taking Boniva include back pain, stomach pain, heartburn, diarrhea, muscle pain and headache. Call your doctor for important information about serious side effects including worsening heartburn, chest pain and flu like symptoms.
