Information on Alendronate and How to Use It, Precautions and Other Medications to Avoid While Taking

This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.

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Alendronate Consumer Information

ALENDRONATE

Generic Name: alendronate (a LEN droe nate)

Brand Names: Fosamax

What is the most important information I should know about alendronate?

  • Some forms of alendronate are taken once a day. Others are taken only once a week. It is very important that you follow your doctor's directions. If you take alendronate once a week, take it on the same day each week.
  • After swallowing the tablet or oral solution, do not lie down, remain fully upright sitting, standing or walking, for at least 30 minutes and until after you have eaten.
  • Do not take alendronate at bedtime or before getting up for the day.
  • Do not crush, chew, or suck the tablets. Swallow them whole.

What is alendronate?

  • Alendronate is a compound that alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Alendronate increases new bone formation.
  • Alendronate is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis and to treat Paget's disease. Alendronate is also used to treat osteoporosis that is caused by treatment with a corticosteroid.
  • Alendronate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alendronate?

  • Before taking alendronate, tell your doctor if you
    • have a problem swallowing, such as a narrowing of the esophagus;
    • have esophageal ulcers or an esophageal disease;
    • have a condition that causes low levels of calcium in the body;
    • have kidney disease;
    • have stomach ulcers or other stomach or digestive problems; or
    • are unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes.
  • You may not be able to take alendronate, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
  • Alendronate is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether alendronate will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take alendronate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
  • It is not known whether alendronate passes into breast milk. Do not take alendronate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take alendronate?

  • Take alendronate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  • Some forms of alendronate are taken once a day. Others are taken only once a week. It is very important that you follow your doctor's directions. If you take alendronate once a week, take it on the same day each week.
  • Take alendronate first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat any food or drink any liquid (other than plain water). This timing is very important for getting the maximum amount of medication from each dose. Foods and beverages greatly decrease the effect of alendronate.
  • To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the alendronate oral suspension with a dose-measuring spoon, dropper, or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
  • Take each tabet dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of tap water or bottled water. Follow each dose of oral solution with at least 2 ounces (one quarter cup) of water. Taking each dose with a full glass of water will ensure proper swallowing of the medication and reduce the risk of mouth or throat irritation. Do not take this medication with mineral water, juice, or any other beverage.
  • Do not crush, chew, or suck the tablets. Swallow them whole.
  • After swallowing the tablet or oral solution, do not lie down. Remain fully upright sitting, standing or walking, for at least 30 minutes and until after you have eaten.
  • Do not take alendronate at bedtime or before getting up for the day.
  • If you have difficulty or pain upon swallowing, chest pain, or new or worsening heartburn, stop taking alendronate and call your doctor.
  • It is important that you continue taking alendronate for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Alendronate can treat or prevent osteoporosis only if you continue to take it.
  • Store alendronate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

  • If you take alendronate every day and you miss a dose, skip that dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose the following day. Missing one dose will not affect your treatment. Do not take two tablets at the same time.
  • If you take alendronate once a week and you miss a dose, take the missed dose on the morning after you remember. Do not take two tablets on the same day. Return to taking one tablet once a week, as originally scheduled on your chosen day.

What happens if I overdose?

  • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
  • The symptoms of an alendronate overdose are unknown, but the following symptoms might be expected: nausea, heartburn, pain in the abdomen, other stomach-related symptoms, muscle cramps, uncontrollable facial grimacing, seizures, irritability, and abnormal behavior.

What should I avoid while taking alendronate?

  • Follow you doctor's recommendations about drinking alcohol and smoking. These activities are related to decreased bone density.

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