General Name: Trademarks: Fosamax What Fosamax? Fosamax (alendronate) is a group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS l nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and destruction in the body. Fosamax slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures. Fosamax is used men and women for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis caused by menopause or taking steroids. Fosamax is also used to increase bone mass in men, osteoporosis and to treat Paget's disease in men and women. Fosamax can also be used for other purposes not listed in this guide. Do not take a pill Fosamax, if you can not sit upright or maintain at least 30 minutes. Fosamax can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (tube that connects mouth and stomach). You will need to remain upright for 30 minutes after taking Fosamax. Take the Fosamax tablet first morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medications. Take each dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only clean water (not mineral water, coffee, tea or juice), taking the pill Fosamax. At least the first 30 minutes after taking the pill Fosamax, do not lie down or recline, do not eat or drink anything other than pure water, and not taking any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids. Some people using medicines similar to Fosamax have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called necrosis of the jaw. Symptoms may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, free teeth, infection, condition, or slow healing after injury or operations related to the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting, anemia (low red blood cells), and existing dental problems. If you have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist in advance that you are using Fosamax. You may have to stop using the medicine for a short period of time. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Fosamax. Fosamax is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include changes in diet, exercise and take calcium and vitamins. Follow your diet, treatment, and the procedures very carefully. Do not take a pill Fosamax, if you can not sit upright or maintain at least 30 minutes. Fosamax can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (tube that connects mouth and stomach). You will need to remain upright for 30 minutes after taking this medicine. You should not take Fosamax, if you are allergic to alendronate, or if you have low blood calcium (hypocalcemia), or problems with the movement of the muscles of the esophagus. To make sure that you can safely take Fosamax, tell your doctor if you have any of these other terms:
ulcers or other problems in the stomach or esophagus. Some people using medicines similar to Fosamax have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called necrosis of the jaw. Symptoms may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, free teeth, infection, condition, or slow healing after injury or operations related to the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting, anemia (low red blood cells), as well as dental surgery or pre-existing dental problems. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Fosamax. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Fosamax can harm the unborn child. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this drug. It is not known whether alendronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm the baby. Do not use Fosamax, let your doctor if you are a child. See also: How should I take Fosamax? Take Fosamax strictly prescribed by a doctor. Do not take large or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Fosamax tablets taken or once a day or once a week. Take the Fosamax tablet first morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medications. If you take Fosamax tablets once a week, take it on the same day each week and always first in the morning. Each pill Fosamax with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only clean water (not mineral water), taking the pill. Do not crush, chew or suck pill Fosamax. Swallow tablets whole. After the pill Fosamax, carefully follow the instructions: >> << Do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax. Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water. Do not take any other medicines, including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax. It may be better for your other medicines at different times of day. Talk to your doctor about the best dosage for other drugs. To be sure Fosamax helping your condition, your bone mineral density should be checked regularly. Visit your doctor regularly. If you have any dental work (especially surgery), tell the dentist in advance that you are using this medicine. You may have to stop using the medicine for a short period of time. Fosamax is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include changes in diet, exercise and take calcium and vitamins. Follow your diet, treatment, and the procedures very carefully. Store at room temperature in a dry and warm. See also: What happens if I miss taking the drug? If you take Fosamax tablets once daily: If you forget to take this medicine, especially in the morning, do not take it the same day. Wait for the next morning to take medications and missed doses. Do not take 2 (two) tablets in one day. If you take Fosamax tablets once a week: If you forget to take Fosamax on the appointed day, take it first thing the next morning after you remember the missed dose. Then, return to normal week schedule on the chosen dose day. Do not take 2 (two) tablets in one day. What happens in case of overdose? Immediately contact your doctor or call the Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. Drink a full glass of milk and contact your local poison control center or emergency service immediately. Do not make yourself vomit and do not lie. Symptoms may include nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramps, numbness or tingling, tight facial muscles, seizure (convulsions), irritability, and unusual thoughts and behavior. What should I avoid while taking Fosamax? Avoid taking any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking the pill Fosamax. Some medicines may complicate your body absorbs Fosamax. Do not lasix 20 mg daily lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the pill. Get help emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Fosamax: hives; difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Fosamax and seek medical attention immediately if you have any of these serious side effects:
severe heartburn, burning pain in upper stomach or coughing up blood;
fever, muscle aches, flu symptoms;
severe pains in the joints, bones or muscle pain;
jaw pain, numbness or swelling. mild heartburn, bloating;
mild nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain;
diarrhea, gas or constipation;
dizziness, eye pain, headache. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects FDA call 1-800-FDA-1088. See also: What other drugs affect Fosamax? Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially aspirin or other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as:
ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil);
naproxen (Aleve, Paracetamol) or
piroxicam (Feldene), and others. This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Fosamax. Tell your doctor about all medications that you are using. This includes prescription, on-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Do not start a new treatment, let your doctor. Where can I get more information? Your pharmacist can provide more information about Fosamax. .
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