Alendronate sodium/colecalciferol
Consumer Medicine Information
What is in this leaflet
This leaflet answers some common questions about DRONALEN PLUS. It is particularly important that you read the sections "When to take it" and "How to take it" before you take this medicine. This leaflet does not contain all the available information.
It does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
All medicines have risks and benefits. Your doctor has weighed the risks of you taking DRONALEN PLUS against the benefits they expect it will have for you.
If you have any concerns about taking this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Keep this leaflet with the medicine.
You may need to read it again.
What DRONALEN PLUS is used for
DRONALEN PLUS is used to treat osteoporosis and to provide additional vitamin D.
Osteoporosis is caused by changes in the way bone is normally maintained. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient required for calcium absorption and healthy bones.
Understanding bone
Bone is a living, growing tissue. Throughout life, our bodies are breaking down old bone and rebuilding new bone in a continuous
cycle. Until our late 20s, while bones are still developing, we gain bone by building more than we lose. From then until about age 35 the process is usually in balance, so that the amount of bone lost is about equal to the amount that is replaced. This balanced process keeps your skeleton healthy and strong. After about age 35 this balance is disturbed, with bone loss occurring at a slightly faster rate than it can be replaced. In women, after menopause, hormonal changes cause bone loss at an even faster rate. When bone loss is excessive, bones can become thinner and weaker, and therefore are more likely to break.
Osteoporosis
"Osteo" means bone, and "porosis" means something that has holes in it, like a sponge. Therefore, osteoporosis is a disease which causes bones to become more porous, gradually making them weaker, more brittle and likely to break.
Osteoporosis is common in postmenopausal women. The menopause occurs when the ovaries virtually stop producing the female hormone, oestrogen, or are removed (which may occur, for example, at the time of a hysterectomy). At this time, bone is removed faster than it is formed, so bone loss occurs and bones become weaker. The earlier a woman reaches the menopause, the greater the risk of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis also occurs in men but is less common than in women.
Early on, osteoporosis usually has no symptoms. However, if left untreated it can result in broken bones, also called fractures.
Although fractures usually cause pain, fractures of the bones of the spine may go unnoticed until they cause height loss. Fractures may occur during normal, everyday activity, such as lifting, or from minor injury that would not ordinarily fracture normal bone. Fractures usually occur at the hip, spine, or wrist and can lead not only to pain, but also to considerable deformity and disability, such as stooped posture from curvature of the spine, and loss of mobility.
What should I know about vitamin D?
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient, required for calcium absorption and healthy bones. The main source is through exposure to summer sunlight, which makes vitamin D in our skin. Clothing or sun block can prevent enough sunlight from getting through. In addition, as people age, their skin becomes less able to make vitamin D. Very few foods are natural sources of vitamin D.
Too little vitamin D leads to inadequate calcium absorption and low phosphate-minerals that make bones strong. Even if you are eating a diet rich in calcium or taking a calcium supplement, your body cannot absorb calcium properly unless you have enough vitamin D. Too little vitamin D may lead to bone loss and osteoporosis. Severe vitamin D deficiency may cause muscle weakness which can lead to falls and a higher risk of fracture.
How does DRONALEN PLUS work?
The alendronate in DRONALEN PLUS works by slowing down the process of old bone being removed, which allows the bone-forming cells time to rebuild normal bone. Alendronate not only helps prevent the loss of bone but actually helps to rebuild bone and make bone less likely to fracture. Thus, DRONALEN PLUS reverses the progression of osteoporosis. DRONALEN PLUS starts working on the bone cells immediately, but measurable effects on bone mass may not be seen for several months or more.
The alendronate in DRONALEN PLUS belongs to a group of non-hormonal medicines called bisphosphonates.
In addition to alendronate, DRONALEN PLUS also contains vitamin D, an essential nutrient required for calcium absorption and healthy bones.
Before you take DRONALEN PLUS
You should know that in some people, DRONALEN PLUS can irritate or burn the food pipe (also called oesophagus). The chances of this happening should be reduced when you follow the instructions for 'How to take DRONALEN PLUS' in this leaflet.
When you must not take it
Do not take DRONALEN PLUS if:
you have an allergy to DRONALEN PLUS or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet
you have certain disorders of the food pipe (oesophagus) including those that cause difficulty in swallowing
you are unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes
your doctor has told you that you currently have low blood calcium
your dentist advises you to consult your doctor first
Do not take DRONALEN PLUS if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
DRONALEN Plus has not been studied in pregnant or breast-feeding women.
Do not take DRONALEN PLUS if:
the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering
the expiry date on the pack has passed.
If you take this medicine after the expiry date has passed, it may not work.
If you are not sure whether you should start taking DRONALEN PLUS, talk to your doctor.
Do not give DRONALEN PLUS to a child.
DRONALEN PLUS has not been studied in children.
Before you start to take it
Tell your doctor if:
1.you plan to become pregnant or breast-feed
2.you have any medical conditions, especially the following:
kidney disease
swallowing or digestive problems, such as ulcers
3.you have any allergies to any other medicines or any other substances, such as foods, preservatives or dyes.
4.you have dental or jaw-bone problems or are planning to have a course of dental surgery.
5.you currently smoke or have been a smoker in the past.
If you have not told your doctor about any of the above, tell them before you take any DRONALEN PLUS.
Taking other medicines
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including medicines that you buy without a prescription from your pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.
Some medicines may affect the way other medicines work.
Some medicines are likely to interfere with the absorption of DRONALEN PLUS if taken at the same time. These include:
antacids, medicines used to treat indigestion e.g. Gaviscon, Mylanta
calcium supplements
vitamins
Therefore, take DRONALEN PLUS at least 30 minutes before taking any of these or other medicines to make sure there is no problem with absorption. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure whether you are taking any of these medicines.
You can take aspirin while you are being treated with DRONALEN PLUS. However, both aspirin and DRONALEN PLUS may increase the chance of stomach upsets.
Your doctor or pharmacist has more information on medicines to be careful with or avoid while taking DRONALEN PLUS.
How to take DRONALEN PLUS
How much to take
Take DRONALEN PLUS only when prescribed by your doctor.
The usual dose of DRONALEN PLUS is one tablet once a week.
Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule. Every week, take one tablet of DRONALEN PLUS on your chosen day.
Follow all directions given to you by your doctor carefully.
They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet.
If you do not understand the instructions on the box, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help.
When and how to take it
Take DRONALEN PLUS after getting up for the day and before taking your first food, beverage or other medication. Do not take it at bedtime.
Swallow one tablet whole with a full glass of plain water [not mineral water, not coffee or tea, not juice]. Do not take any food, medicines or drinks other than plain tap water with your DRONALEN PLUS.
It is important to take DRONALEN PLUS with plain water only, not mineral water. Food, other drugs and mineral water and other drinks, including fruit juices, coffee and tea, will reduce the effect of DRONALEN PLUS by interfering with the absorption into the body.
Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after swallowing DRONALEN PLUS and do not take any food, medicines or drinks other than plain tap water during this time.
Do not lie down immediately after swallowing it.
It is important to stay upright (sitting, standing or walking around) for at least 30 minutes after swallowing your tablet.
It is also very important to stay upright until after you have eaten your first food of the day.
These actions will help make sure your tablet reaches your stomach quickly and help reduce the potential for irritation to your food pipe (oesophagus).
DRONALEN PLUS is effective only if taken when your stomach is empty. Food, drinks other than plain water, and other medicines will lessen the effect of DRONALEN PLUS by interfering with its absorption into the body.
Do not chew or suck on a tablet of DRONALEN PLUS.
Mouth ulcers may occur if the tablet is chewed or dissolved in the mouth.
How long to take it
It is important that you take DRONALEN PLUS for as long as your doctor prescribes it. DRONALEN PLUS can only treat your osteoporosis, by helping prevent further loss of bone and continuing to rebuild bone, if you take it every week. Since it is not known how long you should take DRONALEN PLUS, you should discuss the need to stay on this medication with your doctor periodically to determine if DRONALEN PLUS is still right for you.
If you forget to take it
If you miss a tablet, take one tablet on the morning after you remember.
Do not take two tablets on the same day. Return to taking one tablet once a week, as originally scheduled on your chosen day.
If you are not sure about what to do, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have trouble remembering to take your DRONALEN PLUS, ask your pharmacist for some hints.
If you take too much (overdose)
Immediately telephone your doctor or Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26), or go to accident and emergency at your nearest hospital, if you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much DRONALEN PLUS. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
If you take too many tablets at one time, drink a full glass of milk. Do not induce vomiting. Do not lie down.
While you are using DRONALEN PLUS
Things you must do
If you develop difficulty or pain upon swallowing, chest pain, or new or worsening heartburn, stop taking DRONALEN PLUS and call your doctor.
If you become pregnant while taking DRONALEN PLUS, stop taking the tablets and tell your doctor.
If you are about to be started on any new medicine, tell your doctor and pharmacist that you are taking DRONALEN PLUS.
If you develop a toothache or require a dental procedure, tell your dentist that you are taking DRONALEN PLUS.
If you develop new or unusual pain in your leg, tell your doctor.
Rarely, patients have experienced fracture in a specific part of the thigh bone.
Make sure you have an adequate intake of calcium in your diet.
Your doctor, dietician or pharmacist can tell you what foods you should eat.
Things you must not do
Do not give DRONALEN PLUS to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you.
Things to be careful of
There have been side effects reported with DRONALEN PLUS that may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Individual responses to DRONALEN PLUS may vary (see Side Effects).
Things that would be helpful for your osteoporosis
Some self help measures suggested below may help your osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about these measures and for more information.
Exercise
can be helpful in building and maintaining strong bones. Regular exercise such as a brisk walk is a good idea. Talk to your doctor before you begin any exercise program.
Diet
eat a balanced diet. You may need to increase the amount of calcium in your diet by eating calcium-rich foods or taking a calcium supplement. Your doctor will advise you.
Smoking
appears to increase the rate at which you lose bone and, therefore, may increase your risk of fracture. Your doctor may ask you to stop smoking or at least cut down.
Alcohol
your doctor may advise you to cut down the amount of alcohol you drink. If you drink excessively on a regular basis, you may increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.
Side Effects
Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking DRONALEN PLUS.
DRONALEN PLUS helps most people with osteoporosis, but it may have unwanted side effects in a few people. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some of the side effects.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist to answer any questions you may have.
Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following and they worry you:
stomach pain, gas in the stomach or bowel, wind
an uncomfortable feeling in the stomach or belching after eating, also called dyspepsia, or heartburn
feeling sick (nausea), vomiting
constipation, diarrhoea
headache
aching muscles, joints and/or bones, which rarely can be severe.
flu-like symptoms typically at the start of treatment, such as aching muscles, generally feeling unwell and rarely fever.
swelling of joints
dizziness or spinning sensation
unusual tiredness or weakness
swelling of hands, ankles or feet
hair loss
changed sense of taste
Most of these are the more common side effects of DRONALEN PLUS. For the most part, these have been mild.
Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:
skin rash or redness of the skin, sometimes made worse by sunlight, itchiness
mouth ulcers
blurred vision, pain or redness in the eye
ear pain
symptoms of low blood calcium levels including muscle cramps or spasms or tingling sensation in the fingers or around the mouth
new or unusual pain in your hip or thigh
These side effects are rare, and very rarely, may be serious.
Tell your dentist and doctor immediately if you notice any of the following
Jaw-bone or dental problems (including toothache). Jaw-bone problems may include infection, and delayed healing after a tooth extraction or other work that involves drilling into the jaw-bone.
These side effects are rare and may be serious.
If any of the following happen, stop taking DRONALEN PLUS and tell your doctor immediately:
difficulty or pain upon swallowing
chest pain
new or worsening heartburn
These side effects may be due to irritation or ulceration of the food pipe. They may worsen if you continue taking the tablets. Rarely, these side effects may be serious.
If any of the following happen, stop taking DRONALEN PLUS and tell your doctor immediately or go to accident and emergency at your nearest hospital:
swelling of the face, lips, mouth, throat or tongue which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing
pinkish, itchy swellings on the skin, also called hives or nettlerash
severe skin reactions
black tar-like and/or bloody stools
These may be serious side effects. You may need urgent medical attention. These side effects are rare.
If you have the swelling described above, you may be having a serious allergic reaction to DRONALEN PLUS.
Rarely, stomach or duodenal ulcers (some severe) have occurred, but it is not known whether these were caused by DRONALEN PLUS.
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor if you notice any other effects.
Do not be alarmed by this list of possible side effects. You may not experience any of them.
DRONALEN PLUS is not addictive.
After using DRONALEN PLUS
Storage
Keep your tablets in the blister pack until it is time to take them.
If you take the tablets out of the blister pack they may not keep well.
Keep DRONALEN PLUS in a cool dry place where the temperature stays below 30°C. Do not freeze the product. Keep the tablets away from light or moisture. Do not store DRONALEN PLUS or any other medicine in the bathroom or near a sink. Do not leave it in the car or on window sills.
Heat and dampness can destroy some medicines.
Keep it where children cannot reach it.
A locked cupboard at least one-and-a-half metres above the ground is a good place to store medicines.
Disposal
If your doctor tells you to stop taking DRONALEN PLUS, or the tablets have passed their expiry date, ask your pharmacist what to do with any that are left over.
Product description
What it looks like
DRONALEN PLUS 70mg/140 micrograms comes as a white to off-white, modified-rectangle shaped tablet with "270" on one side and a bone image on the other.
A box of tablets contains 4 tablets.
Ingredients
Active ingredients:
DRONALEN PLUS 70mg/140 micrograms
alendronate sodium equivalent to 70 mg alendronic acid per tablet
colecalciferol 140 micrograms (5600 IU vitamin D3) per tablet
Inactive ingredients:
cellulose-microcrystalline
lactose anhydrous,
medium chain triglycerides
gelatin
croscarmellose sodium
sucrose
silica-colloidal anhydrous
magnesium stearate
butylated hydroxytoluene
modified food starch
aluminium sodium silicate.
DRONALEN PLUS does not contain gluten, tartrazine or any other azo dyes.
