Drug Name: Fosamax
Brand Name: Fosamax
Generic Name: Alendronate (a LEN dro nayt)
Uses: Fosamax is a medication that helps prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis and/or osteoporosis that is induced by steroids. The drug works by changing bone formation and its breakdown in the body. This drug slows bone loss and increase bone mass that could prevent bone fractures.
How to use: Take Fosamax either once a day or once a week 30 minutes before eating, drinking or taking any other medicine.
Side Effects: Among the signs of allergic reactions to Fosamax include skin rash; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; and difficulty in breathing. More serious side effects include difficulty or pain when swallowing, pain in the ribs or back; chest pain, heartburn and muscle pain. Osteonecrosis (bone loss) in the jaw may also be present and can be known if there is pain in the jaw, loose teeth, swelling, numbness, gum infection or slow healing after injury or surgery of the gums. Call your doctor immediately if you experience worsening heartburn, chest pain or difficulty swallowing since these may be signs of serious upper digestive problems.
Precautions: Fosamax can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus so patients taking this drug are advised not to lie down, eat or drink anything except plain water 30 minutes after taking the tablet. Fosamax is found to be harmful to the fetus so it is not advisable to pregnant women.
Drug Interaction: The absorption of Fosamax can be hampered by such medications as antacids, supplements or medicines that contain aluminum, calcium, magnesium or other minerals. If you are under these medications, take them more than 30 minutes after taking Fosamax. Other drugs which may interact with Fosamax include aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Celebrex, diclofenac, ibuprofen and naproxen.
Overdose: Nausea, tight muscles in the face, heartburn, convulsions, stomach pain, unusual thoughts or behavior, diarrhea, irritability, muscle cramps and numbness or tingling sensation are some of the symptoms of Fosamax overdose. Call medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. You may drink a glass of milk if you suspect there is an overdose but do not lie down nor make yourself vomit.
Notes: Avoid eating or drinking anything other than plain water 30 minutes after taking Fosamax. This medication can be taken along with exercise, correct diet and vitamin supplements.
Missed Dose: For once-a-day dosing schedule, if you forgot to take Fosamax early in the morning, skip the missed dose and take it the next morning. Avoid taking two tablets in a day. For once-a-week schedule, the missed dose can be taken immediately the next morning then return to your regular schedule.
Important Note: Your doctor will request you to undergo bone mineral density test on a regular basis to determine your response to Fosamax.
Storage: Fosamax must be stored at room temperature.
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