Boniva is in the "bisphosphonate" family and is very similar to both Fosamax and Actonel - with a few differences.

• The Boniva dose is 150 mg per month.

• You should take your Boniva first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with an 8-ounce glass of water and then wait 60 minutes before eating or drinking. People taking this drug should also stay upright position during the 60 minutes (sitting or standing) - this helps absorption and prevention of stomach & esophagus (food pipe) upset.

• Boniva can also be given as an I.V. (intravenously-an injection directly in the vein). This works well for people who cannot take a bisphosphonate medication  because of stomach upset. The I.V. lasts just a few minutes and is given once every three months.