What is Fosamax: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

How to take Fosamax

• 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.

• The effervescent tablet should not be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved in the mouth to prevent the risk of mouth or throat irritation.

• 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.

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

• 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.

• 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.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.

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

• 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.

• The effervescent tablet should not be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved in the mouth to prevent the risk of mouth or throat irritation.

• 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.

What to do if you miss a dose of Fosamax

Fosamax contraindications

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to alendronate, 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 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, 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 esophagusIncreased risk for a thigh bone fractureLow 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.

• Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain

• Unusual pain in your thigh, groin, or hip

Fosamax interactions

• 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 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.

• Some medicines can affect how alendronate works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following: Levothyroxine, ranitidine injectionCancer medicinesNSAIDs (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)Steroid medicine (including as hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone)

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.