Why is Fosamax prescribed?

Alendronate (Fosamax) is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in women going through menopause. It is also used in men with osteoporosis to increase bone mass, in the treatment of osteoporosis in both men and women caused by the intake of glucocorticoids (a type of steroid medication) and in Paget’s disease of bone.

What does it do?

Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones in your body become weak and prone to fractures. In Paget’s disease of bone, there is a disorder in the process of bone formation and breakdown, causing bones to become softer and more prone to fractures.

Alendronate is classified as a bisphosphonate that works by altering the breakdown and formation process of bones in the body. This may lead to stronger bones and reduce the risk of fractures.

How should I take it?

Fosamax is available in 35mg and 70mg tablets intended for oral administration with water and on an empty stomach. Do not take it with other beverages such as mineral or sparkling water, soda, juice, coffee, or tea. Swallow the tablet as a whole and do not crush, chew, break it in half, or suck the tablet.

After taking Fosamax, wait for at least 30 minutes before lying down, eating and drinking anything (except plain water), and taking other medications, vitamins, and supplements.

Take Fosamax exactly as your doctor instructed and do not make alterations in the dosage or frequency. Your doctor will make adjustments to your dosage as necessary. Fosamax may not be effective and cause problems in your stomach and esophagus if it is not taken appropriately.

Fosamax does not treat your condition; it only controls it. Do not stop taking this medication even if your condition has improved unless advised by your doctor. Always consult your doctor before stopping the medication and clarify any concerns you may have when taking Fosamax.

What if I missed a dose?

The desired effects of prescribed medications will only be achieved if taken properly. As much as possible, strictly follow your doctor’s prescribed dosing schedule. However, if you miss a dose, take it immediately and adjust the time of your next dose depending on your doctor’s advice. Never take two doses at the same time just to make up for your missed dose.

What are the special precautions before taking Fosamax?

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Alendronate, any component of Fosamax, or any other medications.

Inform your doctor if you have hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in your blood), problems with your esophagus and if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Taking Alendronate may not be suitable for you in these cases and should be discussed with your doctor.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had problems in swallowing, stomach problems or problems with digesting food, dental problems, cancer, anemia, kidney disease, or malabsorption syndrome (problems in absorbing nutrients from food).

If you have cancer and received chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids, taking Alendronate may increase your risk of developing bone loss in your jaw. You may need to visit your dentist for an examination before starting Alendronate. Ensure proper mouth hygiene at all times when taking Alendronate and discuss with your doctor about any dental procedures you will undergo while taking it.

For the drug label information of Fosamax, click here.

Does it have any side effects?

It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects may include:
• Bloated stomach
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Flatulence
• Headache
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Nausea
• Stomach pain

Serious side effects may include:
• Bone pain
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Heartburn
• Hoarseness
• Numbness or heavy feeling in the jaw
• Pain in the groin, hips or thighs
• Poor healing of the jaw
• Rashes

Is it safe to take it with another drug?

Some drug interactions may cause serious or life-threatening reactions when administered together. Immediately inform your doctor if you are taking Fosamax with any of the following medications:

• Amikacin
• Aspirin
• Axid
• Bevacizumab
• Captopril
• Cefuroxime
• Colcrys
• Colistin
• Deferasirox
• Dexamethasone
• Diflunisal
• Emetine
• Etacrynic acid
• Etelcalcetide
• Etoricoxib
• Everolimus
• Femara
• Foscarnet
• Ganciclovir
• Ibuprofen
• Iloprost
• Indocin
• Iron sucrose
• Isotretinoin
• Lasix
• Lioresal
• Lipitor
• Lofibra
• Magnesium hydroxide
• Methyldopa
• Methylprednisolone
• Minocin
• Mobic
• Mycophenolate mofetil
• Naltrexone
• Naproxen
• Ofloxacin
• Paclitaxel
• Pazopanib
• Prednisone
• Prevacid
• Prilosec
• Procainamide
• Procarbazine
• Ranitidine
• Retrovir
• Sorafenib
• Stromectol
• Sulfamethoxazole
• Sunitinib
• Triazolam
• Valdecoxib
• Zocor

Do not take Alendronate and other medications, supplements, or vitamins at the same time. Doing so may decrease the effectiveness of Alendronate. Take Alendronate first thing in the morning and wait for at least 30 minutes before taking your other medications or supplements.

Tell your doctor of any prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to prevent interactions with these medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for other possible interactions not listed within this section.

How should I store it?

Store Fosamax at room temperature (15-30°C) in a clean environment away from light and moisture, as well as children and pets. Do not keep it in the bathroom. Always keep it in the container it came in and keep it tightly closed. Throw away unused or expired medications. Do not flush it in the toilet or down the sink.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

Some symptoms of overdose may include the following:

In the event of an overdose, you may drink a full glass of milk. Do not induce vomiting or lie down. Inform your doctor and seek immediate medical attention to prevent the risk of complications or even death.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

There are limited studies and data regarding the safety of Alendronate in pregnant women and it is unknown if it is harmful to the fetus. Alendronate should be discontinued when pregnancy is recognized.

It is unknown if Alendronate is excreted in human milk and if it may cause harmful effects to the breastfeeding infant. The use of Alendronate should be discussed with your doctor if you are breastfeeding an infant.

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