Alendronate (By mouth)
a-LEN-droe-nate
Treats or prevents osteoporosis. Also treats Paget disease of the bone.
Drug classes
Calcium Regulator (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Alendronate is used to prevent and treat osteoporosis (thinning of the bone) in women after menopause. This medicine may also be used to increase bone mass in men who have osteoporosis, and in men and women to prevent and treat osteoporosis caused by long-term use of corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicine). It may also be used to treat Paget’s disease of the bone.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Liquid, Tablet, Fizzy Tablet
Take this medicine in the morning on an empty stomach. Follow the directions exactly to lower the risk of esophagus problems.
Sit or stand while you take this medicine. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after you take the medicine, and do not lie down until after you have eaten.
Use plain water to take your medicine. The medicine may not work as well if you use other liquids.
Tablet: Swallow whole with 6 to 8 ounces of water. Do not chew or suck on the tablet. Oral liquid: Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. Drink at least 2 ounces (1/4 cup) of water after you take the liquid medicine. Effervescent tablet: Dissolve the tablet in 4 ounces of room temperature water. Wait at least 5 minutes after the bubbling stops. Then stir the solution for 10 seconds and drink it.Wait at least 30 minutes after you take this medicine before you eat or drink or take any other medicine. This will help your body absorb the medicine.
This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
Missed dose: Take a dose the next morning. Do not take 2 tablets on the same day. Then go back to your regular schedule.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the effervescent tablets in the blister pack until you are ready to use them.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Some medicines can affect how alendronate works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
Cancer medicines NSAID pain or arthritis medicine (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen) Steroid medicine (including as hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone)Take alendronate at least 30 minutes before you take any other oral medicine, including aluminum, magnesium, iron, or calcium supplements, or antacids.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to alendronate, or if you have esophagus problems or trouble swallowing. Do not use it if you cannot stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes after you take the medicine.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, heartburn, anemia, blood clotting problems, ulcers or other stomach or bowel problems, a vitamin D deficiency, or a history of cancer. Tell your doctor if you have dental problems or if you wear dentures. Also tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
Damage to your esophagus Increased risk for a thigh bone fracture Low calcium levelsTell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may cause jaw problems, especially if you have a tooth pulled or other dental work.
The effervescent tablet contains sodium. Tell your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
Chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or a burning feeling in your throat
Muscle spasms or twitching, tingling or numbness in your fingers, toes, or around your mouth
Pain or difficulty when swallowing
Pain, swelling, numbness, or a heavy feeling in your mouth or jaw, loose teeth, or other tooth problems
Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain
Unusual pain in your thigh, groin, or hip
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Mild stomach pain or upset
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Binosto, Fosamax
There may be other brand names for this medicine.