Final answer:
To take risedronate effectively, the patient should take it upon waking with a large glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes after swallowing, without consuming any food to ensure proper absorption and minimize side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
When educating a patient who is newly prescribed risedronate (Actonel), which is a medication used for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis, it is important to instruct them on how to take it properly to ensure maximum efficacy and minimize potential side effects. The correct instruction would be to Take the medication upon wakening with a large glass of water. This is because risedronate needs to be absorbed properly, which is best achieved on an empty stomach, and the water helps to carry the medication down to the stomach quickly and prevent irritation of the esophagus. The patient should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to facilitate this process and should avoid eating anything during this time as food can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
Additionally, it is often recommended that patients do not stay on bisphosphonates like risedronate for more than three or four years due to a lack of evidence for continued benefits and the potential for adverse side effects after this time.