SN instructed patient / caregiver that Actonel is used to treat and prevent bone loss ( osteoporosis ). SN instructed patient of the side effects of Actonel: nausea, diarrhea, constipation and headache. SN instructed patient / caregiver to report to physician of adverse effects: flu - like symptoms ( e.g., fatigue, fever, aches ), weakness, chest or stomach pain, pain when swallowing, leg or ankle swelling, joint pain, bone pain.