| What is Alendronate?
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Alendronate is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Alendronate?
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Alendronate side effects may include abdominal pain, bone and joint pain, constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, muscle pain,
and nausea. If
the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Less common
Alendronate side effects may include abdominal distention, acid backup, difficulty in swallowing, esophageal ulcers, gas, headache, stomach ulcers,
and vomiting. Rare Alendronate side effects may include changes in taste, esophageal blockage or perforation, eye pain, hives, inflammation of the stomach, mouth sores, muscle cramps, rash, skin
redness, and swollen face and throat. |
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| How is Alendronate taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Alendronate provided by your doctor.
Alendronate is effective only when each tablet is taken with a full glass of plain water first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before the first food,
beverage, or other medication. If you can wait longer before eating or drinking, the
medication will be absorbed better. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking
Alendronate and avoid chewing or sucking on the tablet; it can cause mouth sores. You should take calcium and vitamin D supplements if you don't get enough in your diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol.
If you miss a dose and are taking Alendronate on a daily basis, do not take a missed dose later in the
day. Instead, skip it and go back to your regular schedule the next morning. If you are taking
Alendronate once a week, take one tablet the morning after you remember, then return to your original once-weekly schedule on the chosen day.
Do not take
two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Alendronate with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Alendronate. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
Combining aspirin with an Alendronate dose of more than 10 milligrams per day will increase the likelihood of
upset stomach. Calcium supplements such as Caltrate, antacids such as Riopan, and some other oral medications will interfere with the absorption of
Alendronate, so wait at least 30 minutes after taking Alendronate before you take anything else. |
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| How should I store Alendronate?
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Store Alendronate at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. |
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