Prescribed by U.S. doctors and dispensed by U.S. pharmacists.
Chemical Name:
Alendronate (a-LEN-droe-nate)
Drug Manufacturer: Merck
Common Uses:
Fosamax is a bisphosphonate used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Fosamax may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Before Using Fosamax: BEFORE USING Fosamax: INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking aspirin and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions or allergies. USE OF Fosamax IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have a history of trouble swallowing, or low levels of calcium. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking Fosamax.
How to Use Fosamax:
Follow the directions for using Fosamax provided by your doctor. Fosamax comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about Fosamax. Fosamax is taken once a week. Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule. SWALLOW WHOLE. Do not break, crush, suck, or chew the tablet before swallowing. TAKE Fosamax with 6-8 ounces of PLAIN WATER ONLY the first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine. Fosamax works even better if you take it 60 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine. Fosamax is effective only if taken on an empty stomach. DO NOT CHEW OR SUCK on Fosamax. DO NOT LIE DOWN for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax and until after your first food of the day. Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, or antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum may interfere with the absorption of Fosamax. Take these products or any other medicines at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate. STORE Fosamax at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF Fosamax, take it on the morning after you remember. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.
Cautions:
DO NOT TAKE Fosamax if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in the product. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are taking Fosamax. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be done to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. It is important to have enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have questions about your diet or about taking dietary supplements such as calcium or vitamin D. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any medicines which contain aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Fosamax during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF Fosamax IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using Fosamax, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
Possible Side Effects:
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include stomach pain, muscle pain, headache, constipation, stomach gas, bloating, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience black or bloody stools; new, worsening, or severe heartburn; difficulty swallowing; pain upon swallowing; or chest pain. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to Fosamax is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Do not lie down. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach upset or pain, heartburn, and pain upon swallowing.
Additional Information:
Ways to reduce the risk of osteoporosis include smoking cessation, reducing the use of alcohol, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet. DO NOT SHARE Fosamax with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE Fosamax for other health conditions. KEEP Fosamax out of the reach of children. IF USING Fosamax FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
