What is Fosamax Plus D: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

How to take Fosamax Plus D

• 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.

• Swallow the tablet whole with 6 to 8 ounces of water. Do not chew or suck on the tablet.

• 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 medicine in the original package until you are ready to use 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.

• 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.

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in the original package until you are ready to use it.

• Take this medicine in the morning on an empty stomach. Follow the directions exactly to lower the risk of esophagus problems.

• Swallow the tablet whole with 6 to 8 ounces of water. Do not chew or suck on the tablet.

• Missed dose: Take a dose the next morning. Do not take 2 tablets on the same day. Then go back to your regular schedule.

• Use plain water to take your medicine. The medicine may not work as well if you use other liquids.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

What to do if you miss a dose of Fosamax Plus D

Fosamax Plus D contraindications

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to alendronate or vitamin D, or if you have esophagus problems or trouble swallowing. Do not use it if you cannot stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes after you take the medicine.

Fosamax Plus D warnings

• 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, sarcoidosis, a vitamin D deficiency, or a history of leukemia, lymphoma, or other 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 esophagusLow calcium levelsIncreased risk for a thigh bone fracture

• 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 have other dental work.

• 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.

• Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain

• Unusual pain in your thigh, groin, or hip

Fosamax Plus D interactions

• Some medicines can affect how alendronate/cholecalciferol works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:Cholestyramine, cimetidine, colestipol, mineral oil, olestra, orlistatCancer medicines Diuretic (water pill)Medicine to treat seizuresNSAID medicine (including aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)Steroids (including dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone)

• Take alendronate at least 30 minutes before you take any other oral medicine, including aluminum, magnesium, iron, or calcium supplements, or antacids.

• 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 have other dental work.

• 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.