Drug Notes

Alendronate (By mouth)

Alendronate (a-LEN-droe-nate)

Treats or prevents osteoporosis. Also treats Paget disease of the bone.

Brand Name(s):

Binosto, Fosamax

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Tablet, Fizzy Tablet

• Take this medicine in the morning on an empty stomach. Follow the directions exactly to lower the risk of esophagus problems.
• Sit or stand while you take this medicine. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after you take the medicine, and do not lie down until after you have eaten.
• Use plain water to take your medicine. The medicine may not work as well if you use other liquids.
  • Tablet: Swallow whole with 6 to 8 ounces of water. Do not chew or suck on the tablet.
  • Oral liquid: Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. Drink at least 2 ounces (1/4 cup) of water after you take the liquid medicine.
  • Effervescent tablet: Dissolve the tablet in 4 ounces of room temperature water. Wait at least 5 minutes after the bubbling stops. Then stir the solution for 10 seconds and drink it.
• Wait at least 30 minutes after you take this medicine before you eat or drink or take any other medicine. This will help your body absorb the medicine.
• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
• Missed dose: Take a dose the next morning . Do not take 2 tablets on the same day. Then go back to your regular schedule.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the effervescent tablets in the blister pack until you are ready to use them.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how alendronate works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Cancer medicines
  • NSAID pain or arthritis medicine (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Steroid medicine (including as hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone)
• Take alendronate at least 30 minutes before you take any other oral medicine, including aluminum, magnesium, iron, or calcium supplements, or antacids.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, heartburn, anemia, blood clotting problems, ulcers or other stomach or bowel problems, a vitamin D deficiency, or a history of cancer. Tell your doctor if you have dental problems or if you wear dentures. Also tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Damage to your esophagus
  • Increased risk for a thigh bone fracture
  • Low calcium levels
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may cause jaw problems, especially if you have a tooth pulled or other dental work.
• The effervescent tablet contains sodium. Tell your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or a burning feeling in your throat
• Muscle spasms or twitching, tingling or numbness in your fingers, toes, or around your mouth
• Pain or difficulty when swallowing
• Pain, swelling, numbness, or a heavy feeling in your mouth or jaw, loose teeth, or other tooth problems
• Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain
• Unusual pain in your thigh, groin, or hip

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild stomach pain or upset

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017