 Fosamax (Alendronate) is a bisphosphonate used to prevent and
treat osteoporosis in women and men by reducing calcium loss from
bones. It helps prevent bone loss and increases production of normal
healthy bone in patients with osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and other
conditions which cause a risk for bone loss, including post menopausal
women and after the long-term use of corticosteroids (like prednisone) in men or women.
brand names: Fosamax and Fosamax Plus D by Merck Sharpe and Dohme (MSD) + Generics
Ordering options for Alendronate, including Fosamax and generics are below.
No prescription is needed, but some pharmacies will require a consultation via questionnaire to
enable their staff physician to issue a prescription (this is a free consultation).
Other pharmacies do not require a consultation (no consultation needed)*
Click Here to View More Medications for Menopause and Osteoporosis
Precautions when using Fosamax (Alendronate)
Do not use Alendronate if you have certain disorders of the esophagus (oesophagus), or have
severe kidney disease or low blood calcium. Do NOT lie down after taking Fosamax, stay fully
upright while sitting or standing for 30 minutes or more. Do NOT use Fosamax if you are unable
to stand or sit upright for 30 minutes. Do NOT EAT before taking Fosamax and wait 30 minutes
after taking Fosamax before eating. Fosamax is only effective if taken on an empty stomach.
Quickly swallow Fosamax with a full glass of plain Water ONLY (not mineral water or any other
beverage) to avoid irritation of the esophagus.
Drug Interactions
Calcium supplements and antacids taken by mouth may interfere with the absorption of
Fosamax. Therefore wait at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax, before taking any other
medicines by mouth. Inform your doctor of all prescription and non prescription or herbal
products you may use, especially corticosteroids such as Prednisone. Aspirin or NSAIDs such
as ibuprofen, naproxen could cause stomach irritation or ulcers, check with your doctor if using
these types of medication before taking Fosamax (Alendronate).
Fosamax (Alendronate) Side Effects
Common side effects of Fosamax include: bone and joint pain, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea,
muscle pain, abdominal pain and constipation.
Less common side effects of Fosamax include: acid reflux, esophageal ulcers and difficulty
swallowing. Stomach ulcers, vomiting flatulence and headache. Allergic reactions, such as rash,
redness of the skin, swollen face and throat and hives.
Rare but more serious side effects: severe digestive reactions including irritation, inflammation
or ulceration (occasionally with bleeding) of the esophagus. Changes in taste, esophageal
blockage, inflammation of the stomach, pain in the eyes, sores in the mouth and muscle cramps.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw and Fosamax
There have been reports of a small number of cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw in connection
with oral bisphosphonates such as Fosamax taken for osteoporosis. These have been primarily
associated with active dental disease or a recent dental procedure, such as a tooth extraction.
Read more about Osteonecrosis of the jaw and Fosamax
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