Osphos

Osphos is a bisphosphonate used in the treatment of hypercalcemia caused by cancer. 

This drug has an anti-osteoporotic effect that prevents weakening in the bones when cancer has spread to the bones from another part of the body. This drug requires a prescription.

Before using Osphos, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. 

Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. There is no specific data comparing use of clodronate in children or elderly with use in other age groups. It is still unknown whether the effects of this drug work exactly the same way in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. 

Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects. 

Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or non-prescription drugs. Other Interactions Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. 

Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco. Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with magnesium is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. 

Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as stomach cramping or pain, nausea, stomach burning or problems, or kidney problems.

To use Osphos properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients. The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed. The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug. 

Adults with hypercalcemia are orally given 1600 milligrams to 2400 mg given in one or two divided amounts per day.  The dosage should not exceed 3200 mg in a day. Take this drug at least two hours before or after meals. 

For the intravenous route, 300 mg in a solution to be injected over at least two hours into a vein once a day for two to five days. The treatment period should not exceed seven days. The circulating levels might be reduced if you have kidney problems. 

Use and dosage in children must be determined by your healthcare professional. This drug must be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. 

Keep out of the reach of children. Dispose any outdated or expired drugs and ask your healthcare professional for the proper disposal of the drugs

If you take Osphos, your doctor should perform routine checkups and advise you in taking precautions.

Your health care provider should closely monitor the effectiveness of this drug as well as check for unwanted effects.  

It is recommended to increase your fluid intake to facilitate better excretion of this drug and prevent any kidney problems.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Osphos. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur. 

Inform you healthcare provider immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:

• breathing problems
• convulsions
• mood or mental changes
• muscle cramps in hands, arms, feet, legs, or face
• muscle shaking
• problems with urination
• sores in throat
• stomach cramps or pain
• swelling of the face
• ankles or hands
• unusual heartbeats
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• or symptoms of overdose such as convulsions
• mood or mental changes
• muscle cramps
• problems with urination
• stomach pain or cramps
• trouble breathing
• unusual heartbeat 

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects will eventually disappear as your body adjusts to the drug. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. 

If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.