Boniva Stops Bone Loss
Boniva works by decreasing the activity of osteoclasts, or the cells that break down bone. Its main ingredient is Ibandronate, which is part of a class of drugs called bisphosphonates. According to the University of Washington, bisphosphonates are powerful medications that can alter the physiology of your bones. They can help to stop and even reverse your osteoporosis by slowing or stopping the natural process that dissolves bone tissue.
General Side Effects
The ingredients can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, gas, constipation or an upset stomach. Boniva can also cause heartburn, either mild or severe, pain or difficulty swallowing and stomach or esophagus ulcers. You may also experience pain in the arms or legs. In some cases you may have flu-like symptoms after the first dose.
Severe Side Effects
More severe symptoms include severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain that lasts for months, and slow healing after dental procedures. According to the University of Washington, one serious side effect of taking bisphosphonates is osteonecrosis of the jaw. This leads to teeth becoming loose, swelling and/or infection of the gums and bones being exposed under the gum. You should contact your doctor immediately if after taking Boniva you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, cannot swallow or have severe heartburn.
Avoiding Side Effects
The National Osteoporosis Foundation suggests that to avoid these side effects, make sure you take the pills first thing in the morning, with plain water and on an empty stomach. You need to remain upright for 30 to 60 minutes and avoid taking any other medications for at least 30 minutes after taking Boniva. If you have trouble swallowing pills or following these guidelines, you may be able to have your doctor give you Boniva through an injection.
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