Compare Boniva vs. Nolvadex
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Prevents bone loss.
Boniva (ibandronate) is a first-choice treatment for osteoporosis and is available as a generic, but how you have to take it can be a hassle. It's also only approved for women, not men.
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2.9/ 5 average rating with 64 reviewsforBoniva
Lowers risk of and treats breast cancer.
Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) is an effective, first-line option for certain types of breast cancers, but it has many severe side effects and needs a lot of monitoring.
Upsides
- Available in generic.
- Available in pills that can be taken by mouth once a month.
- Also available as a shot given into your vein every 3 months.
- In studies, postmenopausal women who were at high risk for breast cancer took Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) for 5 years and lowered their risk by about 50%.
- Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) is the only medicine approved to lower risk of breast cancer regardless of menopausal status. Other medicines are approved only for postmenopausal women.
- Effective in treating metastatic breast cancer in men and women.
- Available in both tablets and a sugar-free solution.
Downsides
- You have to take Boniva (ibandronate) first thing in the morning with a full glass of water.
- You have to remain upright for at least 60 minutes after you take the medicine, which can be a problem if you have mobility issues.
- It is only approved to treat and prevent osteoporosis in women who have gone through menopause.
- If you're taking Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) to lower your risk for breast cancer, it can raise your risk of having a stroke or getting a blood clot, especially if you have a history of blood clots or you're currently taking a blood thinner, like warfarin. Tell your doctor about any health conditions before you start taking Nolvadex (Tamoxifen).
- Can raise the risk of fractures in premenopausal women.
- There are many drug interactions, including antidepressants and other chemotherapy (anti-cancer) medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before making any changes.
- Requires regular blood tests and doctor exams to monitor for side effects.
- Not the best choice if you have eye or liver problems.
Used for
- Breast cancer (treatment and prevention)
- Infertility
- Ovarian cancer
- Endometrial cancer
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Injection
- Pill
- Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$24.49
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$1382.28
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Reviews
64 reviews so far
31%
saidit'sworth it
20%
saiditworked well
27%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Boniva (ibandronate)?
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Side effects
22possible side effects
- Abdominal pain8%
- High blood pressure6%
- Indigestion6%
- Joint pain6%
- Nausea5%
- Diarrhea5%
- Back pain5%
- Constipation4%
- Pain in arms or legs4%
- Flu4%
- Cold4%
- Localized joint stiffness and pain3%
- Bronchitis3%
- Headache3%
- Influenza-like illness3%
- Muscle pain2%
- Muscle cramp2%
- Urinary tract infection2%
- Upper respiratory tract infection2%
- Dizziness2%
- Rash2%
- Sleep difficulty2%
21possible side effects
- Hot Flashes65%
- Flush33%
- Fluid Retention32%
- Vaginal Discharge30%
- Nausea26%
- Irregular Menses25%
- Weight Loss (>5%)23%
- Skin Changes19%
- Amenorrhea16%
- Altered Menses13%
- Oligomenorrhea9%
- Bone Pain6%
- Menstrual Disorder6%
- Thrombocytopenia5%
- Cough/Coughing4%
- Edema4%
- Fatigue4%
- Muscoloskeletal Pain3%
- Pain3%
- Ovarian Cyst(s)3%
- Depression2%
Risks and risk factors
- Irritation and ulcers to the stomach and esophagus
- Taking with aspirin or other NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- History of ulcers, or other stomach or esophageal problems
- History of difficulty swallowing
- Unable to sit upright or stand for 60 minutes after taking the medicine
- Pain in the bones and/or muscles
- Problems in the jawbone
- Oral or dental surgery
- Cancer
- Poor oral hygiene
- Prolonged use of Boniva (ibandronate)
- Leg bone fractures
- Low calcium in the blood
- History of low calcium in the blood
- Serious and life-threatening events
- Harm to fetus
- Women of childbearing age
- Increased risk of vision changes
- Worsening liver function
- Current liver problems
- Blood disorders