Boniva treats and prevents osteoporosis (bone loss or weakening). It can help improve bone mineral density and lower the risk of spinal fractures. Boniva is only approved for women who have gone through menopause.

Use Boniva exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or longer than recommended.

Usually, Boniva tablets are taken once per month. Take Boniva first thing in the morning, at least 60 minutes before you eat, drink, or take any other medicine. 

Take the tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water. Do not use coffee, tea, soda, juice, or mineral water. Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water.

Do not crush, chew, or suck on a tablet. Swallow it whole.

For at least 60 minutes (1 full hour) after taking a tablet:

• Do not lie down or recline.
• Do not take other medications, including vitamins, calcium, or antacids.

Before taking Boniva, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: esophagus problems, low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia), inability to sit upright or stand for 60 minutes, difficult or painful swallowing, stomach/intestinal disorders, severe kidney disease. Additionally, update your doctor if you are allergic to it; or other bisphosphonates ; or if you have any other allergies.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Boniva: hives; wheezing, difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common Boniva side effects may include:

• heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea;
• back pain, bone pain, muscle or joint pain;
• pain in your arms or legs;
• headache; or
• fever, chills, tiredness, and flu-like symptoms.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 

What is Boniva?

Boniva is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of osteoporosis. Boniva may be used alone or with other medications.

Can you drink alcohol while taking Boniva?

While taking Boniva, most healthcare providers recommend that you do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Drinking alcohol while taking this medication can cause serious side effects, such as central nervous system (CNS) depression, and can increase the risk of falling.

Call emergency services right away if you experience symptoms of CNS depression: slow or shallow breathing, shortness of breath, feeling faint, dizziness, confusion, and trouble staying awake.

What are Boniva side effects?

Stomach upset, diarrhea, pain in arms/legs, or mild flu-like symptoms (such as fatigue and muscle ache) may occur.