Fosamax Women’s Health Care
Generic Fosamax (Alendronate) is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis and to treat Paget.
Fosamax (Alendronate) reduces calcium loss from bones. It helps prevent bone loss and increases production of normal healthy bone in patients with Paget’s disease, osteoporosis, and other conditions which place someone at risk for bone loss, including after menopause in females or from the long-term use of corticosteroids (like prednisone) in men or women.
Fosamax Side Effects
More common Fosamax side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: stomach pain, heartburn, pain or difficulty swallowing.
Rare or uncommon Fosamax side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: black or tarry stools, skin rash, itching (hives), swelling of the lips, arms, legs, face, tongue, or throat, vomiting, allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face, lips or tongue.
Fosamax side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): diarrhea or constipation, headache, stomach gas or fullness, nausea, changes in taste, bone, muscle or joint pain, rash, which may be made worse by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Fosamax Dosage
Follow the directions on the prescription label. Some patients take Fosamax (alendronate) every day. Other patients may only take a dose of alendronate once a week. If you take Fosamax (alendronate) only once a week, take the medicine on the same day every week. Take Fosamax (alendronate) tablets by mouth in the morning, after you have risen for the day. Swallow the tablets with a full glass (6-8 fluid ounces) of plain water first thing in the morning.
Do not take the tablets with any other type of liquid except plain water. Do not take with orange juice, coffee or other fluids as these may decrease the absorption of alendronate. Do not chew or suck on the tablets; this may cause mouth ulcers (sores). Do not eat or drink anything before you take your tablets and do not eat breakfast, drink, or take any other medicines for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax (alendronate). If you can wait for 2 hours before eating, your body will absorb even more of the medicine.
After taking this medicine, remain sitting or standing upright (do not lie down) for at least 30 minutes to avoid irritation of your throat and esophagus (tube connecting mouth to stomach).
Do not take this medicine at the same time as antacids, calcium, magnesium or iron supplements, or vitamins with minerals; if you take these medications, take them later in the day. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Health Tips
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