Information About Fosamax

USES: Fosamax 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

BEFORE USING: Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, kidney disease; low level of blood calcium; stomach, intestinal, or esophageal problems, like acid-reflux or GERD; problems swallowing; vitamin D deficiency; an unusual or allergic reaction to alendronate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

More common; stomach pain; heartburn; pain or difficulty swallowing

Rare or uncommon:; 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

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

What should I watch for while taking alendronate?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you have Paget's disease it may be some time before you see the benefit from alendronate. Do not stop taking alendronate except on your prescriber's advice. Low blood levels of phosphorus and calcium can occur but usually do not cause serious problems. Your prescriber or health care professional may order regular blood tests to check for these problems.

It is very important to take alendronate with a full glass of water (6-8 ounces). Do not take with orange juice, coffee or other fluids as these may decrease the absorption of alendronate. Do not take alendronate with food. Wait at least 30 minutes or longer after taking alendronate before you eat, drink or take other medicines.

Because alendronate may irritate your throat, remain sitting or standing upright for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate; do not lie down.

If you begin to have pain when swallowing, difficulty swallowing, heartburn or stomach pain, call your prescriber or health care professional right away.

You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet while you are taking alendronate, unless directed otherwise by your health care provider. Discuss your dietary needs with your health care professional or nutritionist.

If you get bone pain, or a worsening of bone pain, check with your doctor. However, many patients have improvement in their bone pain during and after treatment with alendronate.

If you are taking an antacid, a mineral supplement like calcium or iron, or a vitamin with minerals, make sure that you wait at least 30 minutes, and preferably 2 hours before or after taking alendronate. Do not take them at same time.

Limit your time in sunlight or other UV exposure, such as tanning beds, while taking alendronate. Alendronate may cause a rash that is worsened by exposure to the sun.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

MISSED DOSE: If you take a daily dose of alendronate: If you miss a dose, do not take it later in the day. Continue your normal schedule starting the next morning, before you have eaten. Do not take double or extra doses.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTES: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS PRODUCT out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.