alendronate – oral, Fosamax
Medication Uses: Alendronate is used to prevent and treat bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break easily. Your chance of developing osteoporosis increases as you age, after menopause, or if you are taking corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for a long time. This medication slows bone loss, helps maintain strong bones, and reduces the risk of fractures. Alendronate belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates.
How to Use: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking alendronate and each time you get a refill. Follow the instructions closely to ensure maximum absorption and reduce the risk of injury to your esophagus. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth once a day, in the morning before consuming food or other medications. Take it with a full glass of water. Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew or suck on it. Stay upright for at least 30 minutes and do not lie down until after your first meal. Wait at least 30 minutes before consuming anything other than plain water. Do not take this medication at bedtime or before getting up for the day. Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, antacids, coffee, tea, soda, mineral water, calcium-enriched juices, and food can decrease absorption, so avoid taking them for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate. Take this medication regularly at the same time each morning for optimal benefits. Discuss the risks and benefits of long-term use with your doctor.
Side Effects: Stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Serious side effects include jaw pain, severe bone/joint/muscle pain, unusual hip/thigh/groin pain, swelling of joints/hands/ankles/feet, black/tarry stools, and vomit that looks like coffee grounds. This medication may infrequently cause serious irritation and ulcers of the esophagus. If you experience new or worsening heartburn, chest pain, or pain/difficulty when swallowing, stop taking alendronate and seek medical attention. Allergic reactions are rare but seek immediate medical help if you notice rash, itching/swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.
Precautions: Before taking alendronate, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have, especially to bisphosphonates or other inactive ingredients in this product. Discuss your medical history, including esophageal disorders, trouble swallowing, difficulty sitting or standing upright for 30 minutes, low calcium levels, kidney problems, and stomach/intestinal disorders. Bisphosphonates have been associated with serious jawbone problems, so report any jaw pain immediately. Before any surgery, dental or otherwise, inform your healthcare providers about your medication usage. Alendronate is not recommended for children due to severe side effects. Use caution if pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as the effects on an unborn baby are unknown. It is unknown if alendronate passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions: Keep a list of all medications and share it with your doctor and pharmacist to avoid potential interactions. Overdose: Suspected overdose should be reported to a poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include severe stomach pain, painful heartburn, pain in the chest or esophagus, muscle weakness/cramps, and mental/mood changes. Notes: This medication is for personal use only. Lifestyle changes, including exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating a balanced diet, can promote healthy bones. Regular medical testing is necessary to monitor progress and check for side effects.
Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your usual schedule the next day. Do not double the dose. Storage: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain. Dispose of expired or unneeded medication properly. Reporting Problems to the FDA: If you experience negative side effects from prescription drugs, report them to the FDA. Conditions of Use: This database provides supplemental information but should not substitute for medical expertise. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment.
