Risofos 35 Tablet – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & FAQs

Risofos 35 Tablet contains Risedronate, a bisphosphonate medicine used to treat or prevent osteoporosis (weakening of bones) caused by menopause or long-term steroid use. It helps in maintaining bone strength and reducing the risk of fractures.

Uses of Risofos 35 Tablet:

• Treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
• Treatment of steroid-induced osteoporosis

Benefits of Risofos 35 Tablet:

It slows down the breakdown of bones, thus helping in maintaining bone density and strength. It reduces the likelihood of bone fractures in high-risk patients, especially postmenopausal women and long-term steroid users. For optimal benefit, it should be taken along with a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, appropriate supplements, and regular physical activity such as walking and weight-bearing exercises.

How to Use Risofos 35 Tablet?

• Take the tablet once weekly, in the morning after getting out of bed, on an empty stomach.
• Swallow it whole with a full glass of plain water (180–240 ml).
• Do not chew, crush, or suck the tablet.
• Remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet.
• Do not consume any food, drink (except water), or other medications for at least 30 minutes.

How Risofos 35 Tablet Works?

It works by inhibiting the action of osteoclasts — the cells responsible for breaking down bone. This suppression helps reduce bone loss, increase bone mass, and prevent fractures, particularly in the spine and hip.

Side Effects of Risofos 35 Tablet:

Most side effects are mild and temporary. However, consult your doctor if they persist.

• Headache
• Muscle, bone or joint pain
• Indigestion (dyspepsia)
• Heartburn (acid reflux)
• Diarrhea

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Kidney problems, especially in dehydrated individuals or those on diuretics
• Low blood calcium (hypocalcemia)
• Jaw pain or osteonecrosis of the jaw
• Severe esophageal irritation if not taken properly

Safety Advice:

Alcohol

Use with caution. Alcohol can weaken bones and reduce the medicine’s effectiveness.

Pregnancy

Not recommended. Animal studies show harmful effects. Human data is limited. Consult your doctor.

Breastfeeding

Not recommended. Risedronate may pass into breast milk and affect the baby.

Driving

Safe. It does not affect your ability to drive.

Kidney

Use with caution. Dose adjustment may be required in patients with kidney problems. Not recommended in severe kidney impairment.

Liver

Likely safe. No major dose adjustment is needed, but consult your doctor.

Drug Interactions:

Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking. Risk of reduced absorption or increased side effects exists with:

• Calcium supplements – may reduce absorption of Risedronate
• Iron supplements – similar reduction in absorption risk
• Gentamicin, Kanamycin, Amikacin (injectable antibiotics) – may cause low blood calcium levels

What If You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a weekly dose:

• Take it the next morning after you remember.
• Do not take two doses on the same day.
• Resume the regular weekly schedule thereafter.

FAQs:

Q1: How to take Risofos 35 Tablet?

Take it early morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Remain upright for at least 30 minutes. Do not eat or take other medications during that time.

Q2: Why should I stay upright after taking this medicine?

To prevent the tablet from irritating or damaging the esophagus. It helps ensure the medicine reaches the stomach quickly and reduces side effects like heartburn.

Q3: Can Risofos 35 Tablet cause hair loss?

Hair loss is a rare side effect. If it occurs, report to your doctor immediately.

Q4: Is Risofos 35 Tablet safe in pregnancy?

No. It should not be used during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use if pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Q5: What lifestyle changes should I follow with this medicine?

• Consume foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Take supplements as advised
• Get regular sunlight exposure
• Exercise regularly (walking, weight-bearing, strength-training)
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake