About Fosamax
This drug works by binding to cells (osteoclasts) that reabsorb
old bone cells. By decreasing the rate of reabsorption, the
body can add bone mass faster than it would normally be taken
away in some bone diseases. As alendronate sodium is then
incorporated into the new bone (where it becomes inactive),
it must be taken for as long as the results are desired.
A second generation resorption inhibitor, Fosamax is more
effective than its predecessors at adding bone mass and decreasing
fracture risk. The once weekly dosing option is also convenient
for individuals who have difficulties keeping to a medication
schedule.
Fosamax is poorly absorbed by the body, even in ideal conditions.
Follow the use guidelines exactly so that the maximum amount
of medication is available to prevent bone loss. Take Fosamax
on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, and do not
take it in combination with other medications or any vitamin
or food supplements. Do not lay down for a full half hour
to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.
Conditions treated: Paget's disease of bone, prevention of
corticosteroid induced osteoporosis, prevention and treatment
of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Any other causes of bone loss
must be ruled out before beginning treatment.
Other accepted uses: Prevention and treatment of male osteoporosis.
Fosamax is only available by prescription, and works best
when taken regularly.
Fosamax Side Effects
Common Side Effects: Decreased fracture risk, improved bone
density.
Possible Side Effects: Irritation or ulceration of the esophagus
(very unlikely if patient is able to stand or sit upright for at
least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
Adverse Side Effects: Consult your doctor promptly if any
of the following should occur.
Mild: Allergy (rash, redness), calcium decrease, constipation,
diarrhea, headache, muscle pain, phosphorus decrease, skeletal pain.
Serious: Esophageal ulcer, scleritis (inflammation of whites
of eyes) or any eye problems that develop during treatment.
Cautions: This medication is not right for everyone. Speak
to your doctor if you have a history or current case of any of the
following conditions to ensure safe and effective treatment.
- Allergy: If you have, or have had in the past, an allergic
reaction to this drug you will be unable to use it. Also, inform
your doctor of any food or dye allergies.
- Depression: This condition is considered a risk factor
for osteoporosis. While Fosamax will not affect or cause depression,
treatment for an existing condition should be considered as part
of a total wellness program.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Speak to your doctor for instructions.
- Esophageal Disease: Do not use.
- Kidney Disease: If you have severe kidney disease, this
medication is not a suitable treatment. Your doctor will have
to make that determination.
- Nutrient Deficiency: This drug may worsen vitamin D deficiency,
or cause phosphorus deficiency. Individuals with untreated calcium
deficiency should not use this treatment, and a calcium rich diet
is recommended for all patients.
- Pregnant or Nursing: Do not use.
- Ulcers (Esophagus, Stomach): Ulcer or inflammation in
these organs should probably be treated before using this medication
on a regular basis.
- Unable to Sit or Stand for 30 Minutes: If you cannot
sit or stand for at least half an hour, speak to your doctor about
treatment options. Lying down after taking this medication increases
the risk of esophageal ulcer.
Fosamax Interactions
This treatment should not be mixed with all other medications,
and should not be taken within a half hour of other medications.
- Alcohol - May irritate stomach and interfere with bone formation.
Heavy alcohol use is a risk factor for osteoporosis.
- Antacids - Prescirption or over the counter antacids may decrease
the absorption of alendronate, speak to your doctor if you need
to use these medications.
- Asacol (mesalamine) - Increases risk of gastrointestinal disturbance.
- Aspirin and Salicylates - Increased risk of esophageal ulcer
when combined with doses of alendronate higher than 10 mg per
day.
- Calcium - Any supplements containing calcium may reduce absorption
of alendronate, take supplements at least half an hour after taking
your medication.
- Dipentum (olsalazine) - Increases risk of gastrointestinal disturbance.
- Estrogens - Do not appear to interact with this drug.
- Foscavir (foscarnet) - May further reduce calcium available
to the body.
- Magnesium - Any supplements containing magnesium may increase
the likelihood of stomach or intestinal disturbance, take supplements
at least half an hour after taking your medication.
- Nicotine/Tobacco - This is a significant risk factor for osteoporosis.
For the sake of effective treatment, individuals suffering from
bone loss are urged to refrain from smoking.
- Other Medication - Alendronate should be taken on its own, without
any other medications. Wait to take any other drugs (prescription
or over the counter) for at least half an hour unless your doctor
suggests a longer time period.
- Zantac (ranitidine) - May double levels of alendronate. Unknown
how this affects treatment.
Fosamax Dosages
Fosamax is available in tablet form, in 5 mg, 10mg, 35 mg, 40 mg, and 70 mg strength. General treatment guidelines are as follows, though your doctor's instructions should be followed exactly:
- Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis: 5 mg once daily.
- Osteoporosis Prevention: 35 mg once weekly, or 5 mg once daily.
- Osteoporosis Treatment: 70 mg once weekly, or 10 mg once daily.
- Paget's Disease: 40 mg once daily, for minimum of 6 months.
Fosamax Directions
This medication must be taken with a full glass of water (6-8 oz.),
and you must avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking
this medication. If these instructions are not followed, you may
put yourself at risk for esophageal ulcers.
Take this medication only on an empty stomach, at least two hours
after, or a full half hour before eating. Take only with water,
any other beverage will decrease absorption.
Moderate weight bearing exercise has been shown to improve bone
density, while heavy aerobic exercise may be unsuitable. Speak to
your doctor about an activity program that will improve your condition.
Store Fosamax away from direct light and heat. Store in a dry location;
avoid storing it in the bathroom, near sinks, or other areas where
it may become damp. Do not use after the expiration date.
Keep Fosamax away from children; both when storing it, and when
discarding any unused medication.
Fosamax and Pregnancy
Fosamax is dangerous to both mother and child when taken during
pregnancy, possibly resulting in toxicity or termination of the
pregnancy. You should not use this drug if you are pregnant, or
are planning to become pregnant. Do not combine this treatment with
breastfeeding.
Fosamax and Children
This drug has not been studied for safety and effectiveness in children.
Fosamax and Seniors
While no significant differences appear to exist in the effects on seniors, though some individuals may be more sensitive.
Fosamax is a trademark of Merck
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only, please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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