Fosamax

Fosamax (Alendronate Sodium) is for the treatment or prevention of osteoporosis (thinning of bone) in postmenopausal women. It reduces the chance of fractures, including those of the spine and hip. It is also a treatment to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis. It is used in the treatment of osteoporosis in certain men and women receiving corticosteroid medications in a 7.5 mg or higher prednisone equivalent dose who have low bone mass. This medicine is also for the treatment of Paget`s disease of bone in certain men and women.

Swallow Fosamax (Alendronate Sodium) with a full glass of water. Do not suck or chew on the tablets. After taking the tablet, stay fully upright (sitting, standing or walking) for at least 30 minutes and do not lie down until after your first food of the day. Do not take it at bedtime or before getting up for the day.

Side effects usually have been mild. They generally have not caused patients to stop taking Fosamax (Alendronate Sodium). Some patients treated with this medicine experienced abdominal (stomach) pain. This is the most commonly reported side effect.

Less frequently reported side effects are nausea, heartburn, irritation or pain of the esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth with your stomach), vomiting, difficulty swallowing, a full or bloated feeling in the stomach, constipation, diarrhoea, black and/or bloody stools, stomach or other peptic ulcers (some severe), and gas. Bone, muscle or joint pain, headache, or an altered sense of taste were also experienced by some patients. Rarely, a rash (occasionally made worse by sunlight) or eye pain have occurred. Anytime you have a medical problem you think may be related to this medicine, talk to your physician.

You should not use Fosamax (Alendronate Sodium) if you have certain disorders of the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth with the stomach), are unable to stand or sit upright for 30 minutes, have severe kidney disease, low blood calcium, or are allergic to it. Before use, talk to your physician if you have stomach or digestive problems.

Stop taking this medicine and tell your physician if you develop new or worsening heartburn, difficult or painful swallowing, or chest pain because these may be signs of serious upper digestive problems which can include irritation, inflammation, or ulceration of the esophagus. If you have difficulty or pain upon swallowing, chest pain, or new or worsening heartburn, stop taking it and call your physician.