What is Fosamax?

Fosamax and the generic alternative Alendronate, is used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break more 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 works by slowing bone loss. This effect helps maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of broken bones (fractures). Alendronate belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• This medication is usually taken once per week unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule and take it on that day each week.
• Take this medication by mouth, after getting up for the day and before taking your first food, beverage, or other medication. Take it with a full glass (6-8 ounces or 180-240 milliliters) of plain water. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or suck on it. Then stay fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes and do not lie down until after your first food of the day. Alendronate works only if taken on an empty stomach. Wait at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 to 2 hours) after taking the medication before you eat or drink anything other than plain water.
• Do not take this medication at bedtime or before rising for the day. It may not be absorbed and you may have side effects.
• Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, antacids, coffee, tea, soda, mineral water, calcium-enriched juices, and food can decrease the absorption of alendronate. Do not take these for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 to 2 hours) after taking alendronate.
• Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it on the same day each week. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of long-term use of this medication.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: disorders of the esophagus (such as esophageal stricture or achalasia), trouble swallowing, trouble standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes, low calcium levels, kidney problems, stomach/intestinal disorders (such as ulcers).
• Some people taking alendronate may have serious jawbone problems. Your doctor should check your mouth before you start this medication. Tell your dentist that you are taking this medication before you have any dental work done. To help prevent jawbone problems, have regular dental exams and learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have jaw pain, tell your doctor and dentist right away.

Also be aware that:

• Before having any surgery (especially dental procedures), tell your doctor and dentist about this medication and all other products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your doctor or dentist may tell you to stop taking alendronate before your surgery. Follow all instructions about stopping or starting this medication.
• This drug is not recommended for use in children. Studies have shown that many children who took this drug had severe side effects such as vomiting, fever, and flu-like symptoms.
• Caution is advised if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future. Alendronate may stay in your body for many years. Its effects on an unborn baby are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting treatment with alendronate.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, or nausea.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Jaw/ear pain, swelling of joints/hands/ankles/feet, increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, new or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
• New or worsening heartburn, chest pain, pain or difficulty when swallowing.
• Any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Once-daily dosing: If you forget to take Fosamax first thing in the morning, do not take it later in the day. Wait until the following morning and skip the missed dose. Do not take two (2) doses in one day.

Once-per-week dosing: If you forget to take Fosamax on your scheduled day, take it first thing in the morning on the day after you remember the missed dose. Then return to your regular weekly schedule on your chosen dose day. Do not take 2 doses in one day.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Fosamax?

A: Avoid taking any other medicines for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax. This includes vitamins, calcium, and antacids. Some medicines can make it harder for your body to absorb alendronate. Avoid smoking, or try to quit. Smoking can reduce your bone mineral density, making fractures more likely.