Ibandronic acid is used to treat osteoporosis (thinning and weakening of bones) in postmenopausal women. It helps stop the loss of bone and increase bone mass.
This medicine is also used to treat bone diseases that occur together with certain types of cancer.
Ibandronic acid may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
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.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the type of your condition or response to the medication.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Ibandronic acid.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Alert your doctor if you have low levels of calcium in the blood as Ibandronic acid may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- at risk of having ear infections or trauma
- low levels of vitamin D
- unusual bone fractures involving thigh bones
- kidney disease
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 using Ibandronic acid.
Ibandronic acid 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
Ensure that you take enough calcium and vitamin D while being treated with Ibandronic acid. Your doctor will advise you about how much of these supplements to take.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. bone mineral density, calcium and vitamin D levels, urine test) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring of height, weight, and limb pain or fracture may also be needed.
Ibandronic acid may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, indigestion, stomach wind, dry mouth, hair loss, itching, and pain, irritation, redness, and swelling at the injection site.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs of allergic reaction e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, mouth, or throat
- rashes with peeling of the skin or blistering of the lips, mouth or eyes accompanied by fever
- signs of low calcium levels e.g. fits or seizures, muscle cramps, spasms or numbness
- severe jawbone problems
- severe joint and/or muscle pain
- changes in eyesight, eye pain, inflammation, or severe eye irritation
- signs of bone damage in the ear e.g. ear pain, discharge, inflammation
- pain or difficulty in passing urine, change in how much urine is passed, blood in the urine
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking certain antibiotics such as amikacin or gentamicin.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, 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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