Medications and Drugs
Brand Names: FosamaxGeneric Name: alendronate (Pronunciation: a LEN dro nate)
What is alendronate (Fosamax)?Alendronate is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Alendronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures. Alendronate is used to treat or prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis and steroid-induced osteoporosis. Alendronate is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone. Alendronate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. Alendronate 10 mg-APO round, white, imprinted with APO, A10 Alendronate 10 mg-MYL round, white, imprinted with A7, M Alendronate 10 mg-TEV round, white, imprinted with 93, 5141 Alendronate 35 mg-APO oval, white, imprinted with APO, ALE 35 Alendronate 35 mg-MYL oblong, white, imprinted with M A11 Alendronate 35 mg-TEV square, white, imprinted with 93, 5172 Alendronate 40 mg-TEV oval, white, imprinted with 93, 5142 Alendronate 5 mg-APO round, white, imprinted with A, 5 Alendronate 5 mg-MYL round, white, imprinted with AG, M Alendronate 5 mg-TEV round, white, imprinted with 93, 5140 Alendronate 70 mg-APO oval, white, imprinted with APO, ALE 70 Alendronate 70 mg-MYL oblong, white, imprinted with M A12 Alendronate 70 mg-TEV square, white, imprinted with 93, 5171 Alendronate 70mg-BAR oval, white, imprinted with b 70, 720 Fosamax 10 mg oblong, white, imprinted with MRK, 936 Fosamax 35 mg oval, white, imprinted with LOGO BONE, 77 Fosamax 40 mg triangular, white, imprinted with FOSAMAX, MRK 212 Fosamax 5 mg round, white, imprinted with LOGO BONE, MRK 925 Fosamax 70 mg oval, white, imprinted with LOGO BONE, 31 What are the possible side effects of alendronate (Fosamax)?Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using alendronate and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
Less serious side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. What is the most important information I should know about alendronate (Fosamax)?Do not take an alendronate tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Alendronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication. Take the alendronate tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine. Take each dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking an alendronate tablet. For at least the first 30 minutes after taking an alendronate tablet, do not lie down or recline; do not eat or drink anything other than plain water; and do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids. Some people using medicines similar to alendronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre-existing dental problem. Alendronate is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. (Page 1 of 3) |
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Introduction
Although bones may seem like hard and lifeless structures, bones are living tissues that are like muscle. Bones respond to exercise and a healthy diet by becoming stronger. Bones make up our skeletons and provide structure and support for our bodies. However, bones are more than that; they also act like a storehouse for minerals that our bodies need, such as calcium. During a person's lifetime, the body constantly breaks down old bone (through a process called resorption) and builds up new bone. Any time old bone is broken down faster than new bone is made, net bone loss occurs. Bone loss can lead to low bone density (osteopenia), weakness of the bone, and eventually osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis (or porous bone) is a disease in which bones become weak and fragile. Porous bones are more likely to break. Osteoporosis is a serious disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Without prevention or treatment, osteoporosis can pro...
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