hi, thank you for your query. Actonel (risedronate sodium) tablets is a pyridinyl bisphosphonate that inhibits osteoclastmediated bone resorption and modulates bone metabolism. yes the new FDA protocol suggests that bone drugs should be stopped after 5 years for usage. This is particularly important because these drugs are retained in the skeleton longer than 10 years,and hence can lead to excessive bisphosphonate-induced inhibition of bone turnover in the long term. It initially started with fosamax which is alendronate but now a general opinion is that any bisphosphonate drug reaches its max effect in 5 years and should be stopped after that. also the symptoms you were experiencing during usage of the tablet were side effects seen in some patients.some of the side effects are- chest pain; difficulty or pain when swallowing; pain or burning under the ribs or in the back; new or worsening heartburn; severe or ongoing indigestion; severe joint, bone, or muscle pain; new or unusual pain in your thigh or hip; or jaw pain, numbness,... you can continue using calcium and Vit D3 tablets. thank you, wishing you good health