Brand name:
Fosamax
Pronounced: FAH-suh-max
Generic name:
Alendronate sodium
Why is Fosamax prescribed?
Fosamax is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of
osteoporosis, the brittle bone disease, in postmenopausal women. It
is also used to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis, and is
prescribed for both men and women who have developed a form of
osteoporosis sometimes caused by steroid medications such as
prednisone. This drug can also be used to relieve Paget's disease of
bone, a painful condition that weakens and deforms the bones.
Most important fact about Fosamax
For Fosamax to be effective, you must take the tablets without
food or other medications, exactly as directed.
How should you use medication?
Fosamax is effective only when each tablet or bottle of oral
solution is taken with a full glass of plain water first thing in
the morning, at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or
other medication. If you can wait longer before eating or drinking,
Fosamax will be absorbed better. Do not lie down after taking
Fosamax until at least 30 minutes have passed and you've had
something to eat.
Avoid chewing or sucking on the tablet; it can cause mouth sores.
You should take calcium and vitamin D supplements if you don't
get enough in your diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Weight-bearing
exercise can also strengthen bones.
--If you miss a dose...
If you are taking Fosamax on a daily basis, do not take a missed
dose later in the day, Instead, skip it and go back to your regular
schedule the next morning.
If you are taking Fosamax once a week, take 1 tablet or 1 bottle
of oral solution the morning after you remember, then return to your
original once-weekly schedule on the chosen day. Do not take 2 doses
on the same day.
--Storage instructions...
Keep the container tightly closed and store at room temperature.
Do not freeze the oral solution.
Fosamax side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Fosamax.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain,
Acid regurgitation,
bone and joint pain,
constipation,
diarrhea,
gas,
indigestion,
muscle pain,
nausea
Why should Fosamax not be prescribed?
You should not take Fosamax if the calcium level in your blood is
low. Avoid Fosamax if it causes an allergic reaction.
You will not be able to take Fosamax if you are unable to stand
or sit upright for at least 30 minutes. You must also avoid the drug
if your esophagus is not working properly due to strictures or
achalasia (a swallowing disorder).
If you're prone to swallowing air or choking when you drink
something, you should not use the oral solution.
Special warnings about Fosamax
Fosamax is not recommended for women on hormone replacement
therapy, or for women with kidney problems.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing or
have any digestive problems, including heartburn or ulcers. Fosamax
may cause problems in your esophagus such as inflammation, ulcers,
bleeding, and in rare cases, blockage or perforation.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Fosamax
Combining aspirin with a Fosamax dose of more than 10 milligrams
per day will increase the likelihood of stomach upset.
Calcium supplements such as Caltrate, antacids such as Riopan,
and some other oral medications will interfere with the absorption
of Fosamax, so wait at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax before
you take anything else.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Fosamax during pregnancy and breastfeeding have
not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether
Fosamax appears in breast milk. The drug is not recommended for
nursing mothers.
Recommended dosage for Fosamax
TREATMENT OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
- Symptoms of Fosamax overdose may include:
Heartburn,
inflammation of the esophagus or stomach,
ulcer,
upset stomach
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