Alendronic Acid

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Fosamax (tablets), Fosamax Once Weekly (tablets), Osteobon (tablets)

Popular combinations:

Fosavance (tablets – with vitamin D)

Drug type:

Drug for bone disorders

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Alendronic acid is used in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis
• When it is used with HRT (hormone replacement therapy) in postmenopausal women, the combination is more effective than either treatment alone

How should it be used?

Alendronic acid tablets should be taken in a specific way:

• Take soon after waking up in the morning
• Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of tap (not mineral) water
• Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after swallowing the tablets
• Do not eat or take other medicines for at least 30 minutes after doses

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Treatment of osteoporosis: Men: 10mg daily; Postmenopausal women: 10mg daily or 70mg weekly
• Prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women on HRT: 5mg daily
• Prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women NOT on HRT: 10mg daily
• Prevention and treatment of corticosteroid induced osteoporosis: 5mg daily

How quickly will it start to work?

It may take months to notice improvement

How long will the effects last?

Months to years

When should I stop using it?

Use as directed by your doctor

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Yes, usually prescribed for long term use

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: abdominal pain and distension, diarrhoea or constipation, nausea or vomiting, muscle/joint/bone pain, headache
• Less common: heartburn, painful swallowing
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, abnormal sensitivity to light, eye inflammation, jaw pain, severe heartburn or difficulty swallowing

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: history of oesophageal or stomach problems, kidney disease, low blood calcium levels
• Other medicines: Antacids and products containing calcium or iron reduce the absorption of alendronic acid and should be taken at a different time of day
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not recommended
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol:  Avoid, alcohol may cause further stomach irritation