I have just been prescribed actonel for osteoporosis and after reading comments from those who have taken it I am afraid to take it. I have psoriatic arthiritis and am 84 years old. Can I just not take it? I have enough trouble as it is I have no return appointment with the doctor who is new to me and is 2 hours away. Please advise, Thank you
Dear Ma thanks for posting your query on Chat Doctor. I appreciate your concern for the safety profile for Acton. Actonel on long term use can cause ulcer or inflammation in the food pipe (esophagus) producing severe heart burn, difficulty in swallowing, abdominal pain, it is also associated with bone loss (osteoporosis) in the jaw. If you have any acidity related stomach upset it is better to avoid it. Wait for your next appointment.Meanwhile, you can take it D with calcium supplements which are available over the counter. Hope this information helps you. Wishing you a good health.