Risedronate Sodium

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Feb 24, 2025

Pros & Cons


Risedronate Sodium (Actonel) Pros and Cons

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  • Risedronate sodium can treat many types of osteoporosis, including postmenopausal osteoporosis in women, osteoporosis in men, and steroid-induced osteoporosis in men and women, as well as Paget’s disease of bone. 
  • There are various dosing regimens for risedronate sodium, including daily, once weekly, two days a month, and once monthly. 
  • There is a once-weekly delayed-release formulation for postmenopausal osteoporosis that can be taken after breakfast.
  • There is a lower-cost generic available.

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  • The dosing instructions can be difficult to follow (for example, take it on an empty stomach, stay upright for 30 minutes).
  • Risedronate sodium is not recommended for people with severe renal impairment.
  • It can cause serious adverse effects like stomach or esophagus problems and severe jaw problems.