Common Use

Fosamax is a non-hormonal, specific inhibitor of osteoclastic bone resorption. It acts as a synthetic analog of pyrophosphate, suppressing osteoclast activity. This medication stimulates bone formation, restores the balance between bone resorption and formation, and progressively increases bone mineral density by regulating phosphorus and calcium metabolism. It also promotes the development of bone tissue with normal histology. Fosamax is commonly prescribed for treating Paget's disease, osteoporosis in postmenopausal women (to prevent bone fractures, especially in the hips and spine), osteoporosis in men, and hypercalcemia in patients with malignant tumors.

Dosage and Direction

For osteoporosis treatment, the recommended dose is 5-10 mg daily or 35-70 mg weekly. For Paget's disease, the dosage is 40 mg once daily for six months. Fosamax should be taken with a full glass of water. Patients must remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to avoid stomach or esophageal complications. Other medications, food, minerals, or vitamins should be taken at least 30 minutes before Fosamax.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting Fosamax. Discuss any history of kidney disease, stomach ulcers, esophageal ulcers, low blood calcium levels, or vitamin D deficiency with your physician.

Contraindications

Fosamax is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and infancy. It should be used cautiously in patients with acute gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., dysphagia, esophagitis, gastritis, duodenitis, stomach or duodenal ulcers), esophageal stricture, achalasia of the esophagus, chronic renal failure, hypocalcemia, or vitamin D deficiency.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, gas, black stools, changes in taste perception, muscle or joint pain, and osteonecrosis of the jaw. Allergic reactions such as hives, facial or tongue swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash may also occur. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Drug Interactions

Intravenous ranitidine (Zantac) can increase blood levels of alendronate. Antacids, calcium supplements, or medications containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium may reduce Fosamax absorption. Concurrent use of aspirin or NSAIDs with Fosamax may increase the risk of stomach and intestinal side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a daily dose, take it the next morning; do not take it later in the day. If you miss a weekly dose, take it the morning after you remember. Never take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention and drink a glass of milk. Symptoms may include nausea, heartburn, upper stomach pain, diarrhea, facial muscle stiffness, muscle cramps, numbness, tingling, convulsions, or irritability.

Storage

Store Fosamax in a dry, tightly sealed container at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F), away from sunlight, children, and pets.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. This content is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Specific instructions for individual patients should be discussed with a healthcare provider. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of this information and are not responsible for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from its use or from self-treatment.