Boniva, generically sold as ibandronate, is a medication used prevent and treat osteoporosis (condition of brittle bones and bone loss) in postmenopausal women, says Drugs.com. It belongs to the drug category bisphosphonates and works to increase your bone mass and slow its destruction. Tell your doctor whether you suffer from vitamin D deficiency or have a history of kidney disease or stomach and esophageal ulcers. Your doctor may have to change your dosage or prescribe another medication to keep you safe from serious side effects.
Serious Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Boniva can cause pain in your ribs, chest, back, bone, joints and muscle. It can lead to numbness, swelling and osteonecrosis of your jaw. Symptoms of this osteonecrosis of the jaw include jaw pain, numbness and gum infections. Drugs.com says you are susceptible to developing osteonecrosis of your jaw if you have a history of radiation, chemotherapy or steroid treatment. These serious side effects can pose life-threatening problems if not curbed. Your doctor may stop Boniva or adjust its dosage.
Minor Side Effects
MedlinePlus states that Boniva's minor side effects include nausea, headaches, weakness and dizziness. Boniva can affect your bladder and bowel habits and cause diarrhea, constipation and frequent or painful urination. Stomach pain, fever, chills, sore throat and cough are other minor side effects of Boniva. These side effects are usually benign, but tell your doctor if any of these symptoms worsen.
Eye Problems
According to the National Library of Medicine, Boniva can lead to certain eye conditions called iritis and scleritis. Iritis is an inflammation of the middle layer of your eye. Scleritis is an inflammation of the white outer parts of your eye. Symptoms of scleritis and iritis both include eye pain and blurry vision. Your doctor can prescribe medicinal eyedrops to treat these eye conditions
Other Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine states that Boniva can also cause urinary tract infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and dizziness. In some cases, Boniva may even increase your cholesterol levels (waxy substances that can accumulate in your blood vessels and obstruct blood flow) and cause you to have trouble sleeping. All these side effects are treatable with medications. However, your doctor may decide to discontinue Boniva if you experience an excessive amount of side effects.
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