Generic Fosamax - alendronate - is used to prevent or treat osteoporosis (bone weakening) in women after menopause and to treat osteoporosis in men. Alendronate may also be used to treat Paget's disease of bone and osteoporosis (bone weakening) caused by glucocorticoid treatment. Fosamax prevents or slows weakening of bone. Alendronate sodium is effective in decreasing bone loss but does require you to understand exactly how to take this medication. You may have also been prescribed Vitamin D y and/or exercises both which should be followed as prescribed in order to get the greatest benefit using Fosamax.


 

FAQ

How does Fosamax work?
Alendronate sodium works by:

• Reducing the activity of the cells that cause bone loss
• Decreasing the faster rate of bone loss that occurs after menopause
• Increasing the amount of bone in most patients

These effects are seen as soon as three months after therapy with alendronate has begun. These effects continue as long as you keep taking alendronate sodium. The density of bone is maintained or increased and the bone is less likely to fracture. Thus, the drug prevents or reverses the progression of osteoporosis.

How to use Fosamax
Fosamax comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It should be taken once a day in the morning on an empty stomach. The tablet should be taken with a full glass (6-8 ounces - 200 grams) of plain water. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate before you eat, drink, or take other medications. Do not take alendronate with mineral water, coffee, orange juice, milk, or other dairy products. Do not suck or chew the tablet; swallow the Fosamax tablet whole. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate. Standing or sitting upright helps you get the full dose and decreases heartburn or the risk of injury to your esophagus. It is important that you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking Fosamax.

Fosamax side effects
Common side effects of Fosamax are usually mild and include stomach pain, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, gas, stomach fullness, and muscle pain.
Severe irritation of the esophagus is a rarer side effect from alendronate. Signs and symptoms of this problem include pain, swelling, or bleeding in the throat, chest pain or heartburn, and painful swallowing. If you have any of these problems, contact your doctor immediately. To avoid esophageal irritation, take alendronate on an empty stomach with plenty of water and don't lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the drug.