Common Uses
This medicine is a bisphosphonate used to prevent and treat osteoporosis that occurs after menopause. It may also be used to treat Paget's disease, steroid-induced osteoporosis, and other conditions as determined by your doctor.
How to Use
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. In order for this medicine to work, it is important to take it once a day, every day.
Take this medicine with 6-8 ounces of PLAIN WATER ONLY the first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine. This medicine works even better if you take it 60 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine. This medicine is effective only if taken on an empty stomach.
Do NOT lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this medicine and until after your first food of the day.
Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.
If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.
Cautions
It is important to have enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have questions about your diet or about taking dietary supplements such as calcium or vitamin D.
Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes aspirin or products that contain aspirin.
If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy.
It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include
- stomach pain
- muscle pain
- headache
- constipation
- stomach gas
- bloating
- heartburn
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Before Using
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions or allergies.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach upset or pain, heartburn, and esophageal pain.
Additional Information
Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed.
Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.
If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
Warning: To reduce the risk of ulceration of the esophagus and to minimize interference with absorption, take alendronate on an empty stomach with a full glass of water while in a standing position. Remain upright and do not eat for at least 30 minutes after administration.
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