Bonova

Bonova is used to treat high levels of a mineral called calcium in people who have cancer. It is also used to treat or prevent weakening of the bones (osteoporosis) caused by menopause or use of steroids. Using this medicine can reduce your risk of breaking bones. Bonova is best taken without food. You should take it regularly at evenly spaced intervals as per the schedule prescribed by your doctor. Taking it at the same time every day will help you to remember to take it. Do not stop taking it until you have finished, even when you feel better. It may take several days to get the full benefit of this drug. Bonova is only part of a programme of treatment that may also include changes to your diet and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. The most common side effects include headache, musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, indigestion, heartburn and diarrhea. These are usually mild and will disappear after a short time. If they do not go away, tell your doctor. Bonova can cause serious kidney problems, especially if you are dehydrated, if you take diuretic medicine (water pills), or if you already have kidney disease. It can also cause low levels of calcium in the blood and pain in the mouth or jaw. These are serious side effects and need urgent medical attention. Tell your doctor straight away. You should not be given this medicine if you are breastfeeding. Before taking it, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems or low calcium levels. Also let your doctor know what other drugs you are taking. Some of them may affect, or be affected by, this injection, especially medicines used to treat severe infections and medicines used to treat cancer and osteoporosis. You may need frequent medical tests to check your kidney function and mineral levels. Avoid smoking or try to quit as smoking can reduce your bone mineral density, making fractures more likely. Drinking large amounts of alcohol can also cause bone loss and should be avoided.

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Bonova is to be taken empty stomach.

Bonova is a bisphosphonate. It works by suppressing the activity of osteoclasts, cells that cause destruction of bone. This strengthens the bones and minimizes the risk of fractures.

If you miss a dose of Bonova, skip it and continue with your normal schedule. Do not double the dose.