Alendronate is a medication that treats osteoporosis. It can also treat Paget disease of the bone. It works by making your bones stronger and less likely to break. This medication comes in a tablet form, and the brand name is Fosamax®.
ALENDRONATE (a LEN droe nate) prevents and treats osteoporosis. It may also be used to treat Paget disease of the bone. It works by making your bones stronger and less likely to break (fracture). It belongs to a group of medications called bisphosphonates.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fosamax
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Take the dose right after waking up. Do not eat or drink anything before taking it. Do not take it with any other drink except water. Do not chew or crush the tablet. After taking it, do not eat breakfast, drink, or take any other medications or vitamins for at least 30 minutes. Sit or stand up for at least 30 minutes after you take it. Do not lie down. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
If you take your medication once a day, skip it. Take your next dose at the scheduled time the next morning. Do not take two doses on the same day.
If you take your medication once a week, take the missed dose on the morning after you remember. Do not take two doses on the same day.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication.
Some people who take this medication have severe bone, joint, or muscle pain. This medication may also increase your risk for jaw problems or a broken thigh bone. Tell your care team right away if you have severe pain in your jaw, bones, joints, or muscles. Tell you care team if you have any pain that does not go away or that gets worse.
Tell your dentist and dental surgeon that you are taking this medication. You should not have major dental surgery while on this medication. See your dentist to have a dental exam and fix any dental problems before starting this medication. Take good care of your teeth while on this medication. Make sure you see your dentist for regular follow-up appointments.
You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medication. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your care team.
You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.
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