Generic name:
alendronate (a LEN dro nayt)
Drug class:
Alendronate is a biphosphonate (bone resorption inhibitor).
Brand names:
FOSAMAX, FOSAMAX PLUS D
Manufacturer:
Merck
Item info:
FOSAMAX (alendronate sodium) is a prescription drug used by patients diagnosed with osteoporosis, a disease that causes bone to become more porous, weaker and more brittle.
FOSAMAX works by reducing the activity of cells that cause bone loss, and increases new bone formation. FOSAMAX decreases the rate of bone loss that occurs after menopause in women, or while taking corticosteroid medications.
FOSAMAX is available in tablets and oral solution. You can buy FOSAMAX online through online pharmacies or online ordering systems like Euromedonline. If you need a prescription, you can fill out our prescription request form and a US-licensed physician will issue you with one.
Contraindications:
Do not take FOSAMAX tablets without informing your doctor of your sensitivity to its formulation: (active) alendronate monosodium salt trihydrate; (inactive) microcrystalline cellulose, anhydrous lactose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, and carnauba wax. FOSAMAX oral solution contains the following ingredients: (active) alendronate monosodium salt trihydrate; (inactive) sodium citrate dihydrate and citric acid anhydrous as buffering agents, sodium saccharin, artificial raspberry flavor, and purified water; sodium propylparaben 0.0225% and sodium butylparaben 0.0075% are added as preservatives.
Do not take FOSAMAX without first talking to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
The existence of these conditions may require your doctor to prohibit, make a dosage adjustment or call for special monitoring while taking FOSAMAX.
Alendronate is in the FDA pregnancy category C, which means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby, or whether it can be passed on to nursing infants.
Interactions:
Do not take FOSAMAX without first talking to your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements.
FOSAMAX may also interact with any of the following medicines:
Calcium supplements, antacids and other oral medicines may decrease the effects of FOSAMAX. Do not take any other medicines within 30 minutes after intake.
FOSAMAX may increase the risk of damage to your stomach if taken with aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like:
Side effects:
Most common and less serious side effects have been reported in treatment with FOASMAX. These include stomach pain, indigestion/heartburn, and nausea. These were generally mild and did not require discontinuation of treatment.
Stop medication and seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Contact your doctor immediately if you feel severe bone, joint, and muscle pain at any time.
If you develop allergic-type reactions, stop taking FOSAMAX and seek immediate medical attention.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome.
Dosage:
Take FOSAMAX exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Frequency and dosage varies with type of condition. If you do not understand these directions, or if you would like to learn more about the medication you are taking, ask your pharmacist or nurse to explain them to you. You may also call 1.866.279.1400 for 24/7 customer support.
Take FOSAMAX at approximately the same time each week. Timing is very important to get the maximum benefit from each dose.
Tablets: Swallow the tablet whole. Do crush or chew. Follow with six to eight ounces of plain water.
Oral Solution: Use a dose measuring spoon to get the correct dose. Follow with at least two ounces of plain water.
The effect of FOSAMAX greatly decreases at every food or beverage intake. Administer treatment at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking, preferably first thing in the morning. Other medications should also be taken 30 minutes after FOSAMAX intake.
After intake, do not lie down.
If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with your next scheduled intake. Do not take two doses a day.
Take FOSAMAX for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Results can be seen as soon as three months after treatment has begun.
Storage:
Store FOSAMAX at room temperature, between 59-86°F (15-30°C).
More information:
http://www.fosamax.com