What is Alendronate Sodium?

• Alendronate sodium is the generic name for Fosamax (brand name). Fosamax is chemically known as a bisphosphonate medication. It is not a hormone. Fosamax works only on the bone and does not affect the heart, breast, uterus or other parts of the body. Alendronate sodium (Fosamax) is taken for the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men. In addition, Fosamax is approved for the treatment of women and men with osteoporosis resulting from the long-term use of steroid medications such as prednisone or cortisone. Alendronate sodium (Fosamax) is FDA-approved for the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men. In addition, Fosamax is approved for the treatment of women and men with osteoporosis resulting from the long-term use of steroid medications such as prednisone or cortisone.

How is Alendronate Sodium usually prescribed?

• For osteoporosis prevention, Alendronate Sodium is available as a 5mg tablet taken daily or a 35mg tablet taken once a week. For osteoporosis treatment, Fosamax is approved as a 10mg tablet taken daily or a 70mg tablet taken once a week. In addition, for osteoporosis treatment, the FDA recently approved alendronate sodium/cholecalciferol (Fosamax Plus D) a single, once-weekly tablet containing both 70mg alendronate sodium (Fosamax) and 2800IU of vitamin D (representing 7 days worth of 400IU of vitamin D). When taking Fosamax, it is recommended to get adequate calcium and vitamin D each day. It also important to follow the universal strategies for promotion of healthy bones.

What are the benefits of Alendronate Sodium?

• Clinical studies show alendronate sodium increases the bone mineral density of the existing skeleton and reduces the risk of all osteoporosis-related fractures (fractures of the spine and other non-spine areas including the hips) in patients with osteoporosis.

What are the side effects of taking Alendronate Sodium?

• The side effects of Fosamax may include heartburn and irritation of the esophagus but can usually be avoided by taking the medication properly. Fosamax must be taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of tap water. Do not take Fosamax with any other beverages such as mineral water, juice, milk, coffee or tea. After taking this medication, you must remain upright (in a sitting or standing position) and avoid bending over or lying down for at least 30 minutes.

What drug(s) may interact with alendronate?

• aluminum hydroxide
• antacids
• anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others
• aspirin
• calcium supplements
• iron supplements
• magnesium supplements
• parathyroid hormone
• teriparatide
• vitamins with minerals

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