FOSAMAX

Who is Fosamax for ?

Alendronate is used to prevent and treat postmenopausal osteoporosis (bone weakening) in both women and men. It is also used to treat Paget's disease. Alendronate prevents or slows weakening of bone. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Alendronate works by preventing bone from being broken down by osteoclasts (cells that break down bone). This indirectly causes an increase in bone formation--increasing the density of bones to make them stronger.

When should I be careful taking Fosamax ?

Before taking alendronate,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to alendronate or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antacids, aspirin products, calcium products, estrogen-containing medications (Premarin), and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had abnormalities of your esophagus; upper gastrointestinal disease such as ulcers, gastritis, heartburn, chronic stomach problems, or duodenitis; a history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (high temperature with rigid muscles and abnormal consciousness); or below normal calcium levels in your blood or if you are unable to stand or sit upright for 30 minutes.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking alendronate, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking alendronate.
• be aware that you should not drink alcoholic beverages while you are taking this drug.

Side Effects

Although side effects from alendronate are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• gas
• bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• heartburn
• stomach irritation or upset stomach
• acid regurgitation (reflux)
• stomach pain
• headache
• muscle or bone pain

If you experience the following symptom, call your doctor immediately:

• difficulty swallowing