Fosamax
Alendronate
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Fosamax
Fosamax belongs to the bisphosphonates class of the medications. Such drugs act by decreasing the activity of the cells that break down bone.
Therapeutic Uses of Fosamax
Fosamax is intended to treat various types of bone loss (osteoporosis). Keeping the bones strong by slowing bone loss will help to decrease the possibility of the fractures. The possibility of appearing osteoporosis grows as the age of the patient increases. Especially after menopause in women because of the lack of estrogen hormones and in case the patient uses certain corticosteroid drugs for a prolonged period of time.
Direction of use of Fosamax
Read the leaflet enclosed to the medication before starting the treatment. Strictly follow the instructions below and use the medication regularly at the same time each day to get the best effect of it and decrease the possibility of the esophagus injury.
The medication should be taken orally once a day before a breakfast. The drug should be taken with a glass of water without chewing or sucking the tablet. After taking the tablet the patient should keep himself in fully upright position at least within 30 minutes (1-2 hour are preferred) and do not eat or drink anything.
The drug should not be taken before going to sleep as it may not be fully absorbed.
The use of other drugs, vitamins, antacids, coffee, tea, soda, mineral water and food along with the Fosamax may decrease the absorption of the last one. Avoid using all mentioned above at least in 30 minutes after taking Fosamax.
Dose of Fosamax, if Missed
In case you have missed to take the medication skip the missed dose and follow you common schedule on the next day. Avoid using two dosages at once.
How to Store Fosamax
The medication should be stored at the temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) in a dark and dry place beyond the reach of the children and the pets. Avoid keeping the drug in the bathroom.
Avoid flushing the medication in the toilet unless your doctor directs you to do so. Contact your doctor to find out how to discard the medication properly in case your treatment is over or you don't need this drug anymore.
More Information About Fosamax
Your doctor may also be aware of the drugs you use thus don't start, stop or change the dose of any medication without previous consultation with your doctor.
Before starting Fosamax therapy let your doctor know about any medication you already use.
Look through the leaflets of the drugs you already use as they may contain aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that may be a cause of the certain stomach disorders. If you are not sure consult with your doctor about the possibility of these medications usage. However in case your doctor prescribes you low-dose of the aspirin (for instance to prevent heart attack) you should continue to take it.
In case you notice any other drug interaction contact your doctor to discuss them.
In case you experience overdose contact your healthcare provider for an emergency assistance. The signs of the overdose may be as follows: severe stomach pain, painful heartburn, pain in the esophagus (chest pain), muscle weakness, mental/mood changes.
Avoid sharing the medication with anyone else.
To get most effect of the drug the treatment should be combined with a healthy lifestyle (increase of weight-bearing exercises, give up smoking, reducing the alcohol intake, using well-balanced and vitaminized foods).
Your doctor will monitor you within the treatment period. This may include laboratory as well as medical tests (x-rays, height measurement, blood mineral levels).
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Fosamax
Before starting the treatment let your doctor know about any allergies you have.
The use of the drug may be prohibited in case you experience certain medical conditions. Thus let your doctor know:
- in case you have any esophagus disorders, low calcium level, kidney diseases or you are unable to stand upright within 30 minutes
- your medical history, especially in case you experience any trouble swallowing or stomach problems
In case you have certain mouth or dental problems contact you dentist before starting the Fosamax treatment. Let your doctor know about you medical history especially of any cancer radiation treatment and any used drugs.
It is not recommended to use this medication in children as its use may cause vomiting, fever and certain flu-like symptoms.
In case you are pregnant, going to become pregnant or within breast feeding period consult with your doctor before starting the treatment. The effect of the drug to human fetus is not known.
Possible Adverse Effects
The use of the drug may cause various side effects. Contact your doctor in case you experience any of the following side effects for a prolonged period of time.
Don't forget that the doctor prescribes you the medication according to your medical condition.
Let your doctor know at once in case you have any of the following quite serious side effects: jaw pain, an increase in muscle or bone pain, swelling of joints/hands/ankles/feet, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
The use of the drug may cause various esophagus troubles. So in case you experience such serious side effects as new or worsening heartburn, chest pain, trouble or painful swallowing then stop use the medication and contact your doctor at once.
It is unlikely to occur however in case you experience any allergy like reaction (rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing) contact your doctor at once.
In case you experience any other side effects discuss them with your healthcare provider.