Fosamax

The active ingredient in Fosamax is alendronate sodium. This medication belongs to a class known as bisphosphonates. Normal, healthy bone will cycle through a series of bone formation and bone dissolving phases to remodel and revise our skeletal structures. In osteoporotic bone, there is an imbalance between bone formation and bone dissolving phases, in which the latter dominates and causes weaker bones with a less dense structure. Bisphosphonates work by slowing down the cells that take part in bone dissolving so that bone formation can take place. Certain risk factors, like menopause or excessive corticosteroid use, put someone at an increased risk for osteoporosis.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Fosamax. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Fosamax:

• Fosamax should be used exactly as prescribed.
• It is typically taken once a day or once a week on an empty stomach after you get up before taking your first food, drink, or other medicine of the day. Take with a full glass of water and stay upright for at least 30 minutes and until after your first food of the day to prevent ulcers from forming in the esophagus. Only take it with plain water. Do not take it with mineral water, coffee, tea, soda, or juice.
• Because Fosamax can cause low blood calcium levels, your healthcare provider may recommend taking calcium and vitamin D supplements during use if you do not get enough from your diet. Speak to your healthcare provider about which doses and products are right for you.
• If you miss a dose, take the forgotten dose the following day if on a weekly dosing schedule. If on a daily dosing schedule, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

The most common side effects of Fosamax include:

• Gastrointestinal or stomach pain
• Nausea
• Acid reflux
• Indigestion and gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Musculoskeletal or bone, muscle, and joint pain

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Fosamax. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Symptoms of esophagus problems, such as chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or trouble swallowing
• Symptoms of hypocalcemia or low blood calcium levels, such as muscle spasms, twitches, cramped muscles, or numbness and tingling in the fingers, toes, or around the mouth
• Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain
• Jaw problems (osteonecrosis of the jaw)
• Symptoms of a thigh bone or femur fracture, such as new or unusual pain in the hips, groin, or thigh
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue

These are not all of the possible side effects of Fosamax. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Fosamax, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Problems with swallowing
• Stomach or digestive problems
• Malabsorption syndrome
• Low blood calcium
• Plans for dental surgery or tooth extractions
• Kidney problems
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

Do not use Fosamax if you have:

• Esophageal problems
• Cannot stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes
• Low calcium levels in the blood
• Are allergic to Fosamax or any of its other ingredients

Fosamax will start to work right after the first dose. However, it may take several weeks of regular use to see an improvement in bone density.

When Fosamax is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Calcium supplements
• An antacid, supplement, or vitamin containing calcium, aluminum, magnesium, or iron
• Aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Fosmax is available in 70 mg tablets that often come in a 4-tablet blister pack. It is also available as a 5 mg, 10 mg, and 40 mg tablet, as well as a 70 mg/75 ml oral solution.

Fosamax is also available under another brand name known as Binosto with a different formulation.

Fosamax should be stored at room temperature, away from light or moisture, and out of reach of children.

Fosamax is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Organon.

Yes, there is a generic of the brand-name Fosamax available.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing your dose while taking Fosamax.

Fosamax should not be used during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known whether Fosamax passes into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.