Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.
Atypical femur fracture: There is evidence that long-term use of this class of medication may contribute to a type of rare fracture of the long bone in the thigh (femur), without any form of trauma.
If you experience new or unusual pain in the groin, hip, or thigh area, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Deterioration of the jaw bone: People with cancer treated with clodronate (or other bisphosphonates) may, though rarely, develop osteonecrosis of the jaw (deterioration of the jaw bone). If you experience any pain, swelling, or infection of the jaw report this to your doctor. Before starting treatment with clodronate, your doctor may recommend that you see a dentist for an examination and any necessary dental treatment. While receiving clodronate, try to avoid invasive dental procedures such as tooth extractions.
Effects on the esophagus: Clodronate can cause irritation or ulcers of the esophagus (the passage from the throat to the stomach). In some cases, these effects have been severe and have required hospitalization. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately if you suddenly experience problems swallowing, find it painful to swallow, develop pain behind the sternum (breastbone), or have new or worsening heartburn.
To reduce the risk of irritation of the esophagus, swallow Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium) with a full glass of plain water. Do not lie down until 30 minutes have passed and you have eaten your first food of the day. Do not chew, suck, or crush the capsule, as this may lead to ulcers in the mouth or throat. Do not take Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium) at bedtime or before getting up for the day.
Inflammation of the eye: Conditions of eye inflammation have been reported by people using clodronate. If you experience changes to your vision, red eyes, or eye pain, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Kidney problems: Clodronate may cause kidney problems. If you have reduced kidney function, discuss with your doctor how Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor will monitor your kidney function during and after intravenous infusions of clodronate.
Low calcium levels: Clodronate may cause low calcium levels. You will need to have regular blood tests to monitor your calcium levels while taking clodronate. If you experience symptoms of low levels of calcium in the blood, such as muscle spasms, tingling or numbness of the fingers and mouth, twitching, or memory loss, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if clodronate passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Bonefos (Clodronate-disodium) has not been established for children.
