ALENDRONATE WEEKLY - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (a-LEN-droe-nate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fosamax

GENERIC NAME(S): alendronate sodium

Uses

USES: Alendronate is used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break more easily. Your chance of developing osteoporosis increases as you age, after menopause, or if you are taking corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for a long time. This medication works by slowing bone loss. This effect helps maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of broken bones (fractures). Alendronate belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates.

How to use ALENDRONATE WEEKLY - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking alendronate and each time you get a refill. Follow the instructions very closely to make sure your body absorbs as much drug as possible and to reduce the risk of injury to your esophagus. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is usually taken once per week unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule and take it on that day each week. Take this medication by mouth, after getting up for the day and before taking your first food, beverage, or other medication. Take it with a full glass (6-8 ounces or 180-240 milliliters) of plain water. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or suck on it. Then stay fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes and do not lie down until after your first food of the day. Alendronate works only if taken on an empty stomach. Wait at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 to 2 hours) after taking the medication before you eat or drink anything other than plain water. Do not take this medication at bedtime or before rising for the day. It may not be absorbed and you may have side effects. Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, antacids, coffee, tea, soda, mineral water, calcium-enriched juices, and food can decrease the absorption of alendronate. Do not take these for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 to 2 hours) after taking alendronate. Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it on the same day each week. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of long-term use of this medication.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: jaw/ear pain, swelling of joints/hands/ankles/feet, increased or severe bone/joint/muscle pain, new or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. This medication may rarely cause serious irritation and ulcers of the esophagus. If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking alendronate and talk to your doctor or pharmacist right away: new or worsening heartburn, chest pain, pain or difficulty when swallowing. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking alendronate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other bisphosphonates; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: disorders of the esophagus (such as esophageal stricture or achalasia), trouble swallowing, trouble standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes, low calcium levels, kidney problems, stomach/intestinal disorders (such as ulcers). Some people taking alendronate may have serious jawbone problems. Your doctor should check your mouth before you start this medication. Tell your dentist that you are taking this medication before you have any dental work done. To help prevent jawbone problems, have regular dental exams and learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have jaw pain, tell your doctor and dentist right away. Before having any surgery (especially dental procedures), tell your doctor and dentist about this medication and all other products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your doctor or dentist may tell you to stop taking alendronate before your surgery. Follow all instructions about stopping or starting this medication. This drug is not recommended for use in children. Studies have shown that many children who took this drug had severe side effects such as vomiting, fever, and flu-like symptoms. Caution is advised if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future. Alendronate may stay in your body for many years. Its effects on an unborn baby are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting treatment with alendronate. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use section. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Check all prescription and nonprescription medicine labels carefully since many medications contain pain relievers/fever reducers (aspirin, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib) that could cause stomach irritation/ulcers. However, if your doctor has directed you to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (usually at dosages of 81-325 milligrams a day), you should continue taking the aspirin unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe stomach pain, painful heartburn, pain in the esophagus (chest pain), muscle weakness/cramps, mental/mood changes.

Images

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 70 MG TAB

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shape: oblong
imprint: F, 21

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 35 MG TAB

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imprint: C223

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 35 MG TAB

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imprint: C223

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 70 MG TAB

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imprint: C224

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 70 MG TAB

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imprint: C224

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 35 MG TAB

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imprint: AP207

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 35 MG TAB

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imprint: AP207

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 70 MG TAB

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imprint: AP205

ALENDRONATE SODIUM 70 MG TAB

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shape: oblong
imprint: AP205

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Faq for ALENDRONATE WEEKLY - ORAL

What is Alendronate Weekly used for

Alendronate Weekly is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, as well as to treat osteoporosis in men.

How should I take Alendronate Weekly

Take Alendronate Weekly exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, it is taken once a week on the same day each week. You should take it on an empty stomach in the morning with a full glass of water while standing or sitting upright. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it.

What are the common side effects of Alendronate Weekly

Some common side effects of Alendronate Weekly include stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, gas, headache, and muscle or joint pain. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Can I take other medications while using Alendronate Weekly

It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Alendronate Weekly and affect its effectiveness or cause side effects.

What precautions should I take while using Alendronate Weekly

To maximize the effectiveness and safety of Alendronate Weekly, it is important to follow certain precautions. These include maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication, and avoiding consuming food, beverages (except water), or other medications for at least 30 minutes after taking Alendronate Weekly.

How long should I take Alendronate Weekly

The duration of treatment with Alendronate Weekly will depend on the individual's condition and the advice of their healthcare provider. It is generally recommended to continue treatment for as long as instructed by the doctor.

Can Alendronate Weekly cause serious side effects

Yes, in rare cases, Alendronate Weekly can cause serious side effects such as jawbone problems (osteonecrosis of the jaw) and unusual thigh bone fractures. If you experience jaw pain, swelling, or numbness, or if you have new or unusual thigh/groin pain, contact your doctor immediately.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Alendronate Weekly

If you miss a dose, take it the next morning after you remember. Do not take two doses on the same day. Return to your regular dosing schedule the following week.

Is it safe to use Alendronate Weekly during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Alendronate Weekly is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this medication.

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Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.