Liquid, Tablet

Merck Frosst, Novopharm

Fosamax (alendronate) is used treat adults with Paget's disease of the bone and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is also used to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis, and is prescribed for both men and women who have developed a form of osteoporosis sometimes caused by steroid medications such as prednisone.

Do not take Fosamax (alendronate) if you are allergic to any ingredient of Fosamax (alendronate) (bisphosphonates) you have low calcium blood levels you have active stomach problems (eg, esophagitis, gastritis, ulcers) you have renal insufficiency you have a difficulty swallowing or inability to stand/sit upright for at least 30 minutes

Before using Fosamax (alendronate), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical conditions

Fosamax (alendronate) is not recommended for women on hormone replacement therapy, or for women with kidney problems. Fosamax (alendronate) may cause problems in your esophagus such as inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, and in rare cases, blockage or perforation.

Other: Changes in taste, esophageal blockage or perforation, eye pain, hives, inflammation of the stomach, mouth sores, muscle cramps, rash, skin redness, swollen face and throat.

Follow the patient instructions provided with Fosamax (alendronate) exactly. How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Fosamax (alendronate) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop taking Fosamax (alendronate) without checking with your health care provider. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. Patients with previous conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Fosamax (alendronate). Take each tablet first thing in the morning with a full glass of water (6 to 8 oz), at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage or medication of the day. Taking Fosamax (alendronate) with orange juice or coffee can decrease its effectiveness. Do not chew or suck on the tablet. After taking Fosamax (alendronate), remain upright (sitting/standing) for 30 minutes. Do not lie down until after eating. Do not take at bedtime. Do not take at the same time as other medicines (including aspirin), antacids or calcium supplements. Wait at least one-half hour before taking any other drug. If a dose is missed, do not take it later in the day. The next day, continue your usual schedule of 1 tablet once a day. Continue use of Fosamax (alendronate). Contact your health care provider if any throat or swallowing problems occur. Do not change the dose or discontinue taking Fosamax (alendronate) unless advised to do so by your health care provider. May cause stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea. Patients should maintain adequate nutrition, particularly an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Supplemental calcium and vitamin D may be required. Avoid cigarette smoking and alcohol, which deplete calcium from bones. Consider weight-bearing exercises to increase to increase the calcium density of bones. Lab tests may be required to monitor treatment. Keep appointments.

Store Fosamax (alendronate) at room temperature 59 to 86 degrees F, in a tightly sealed container.