FOSAMAX
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE
FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR
OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO
INDICATE THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR
YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING FOSAMAX.
ALENDRONATE WEEKLY - ORAL (al-EN-droh-nate)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Fosamax
USES:
This version of alendronate is used for certain cases of
osteoporosis; a disease that weakens bones.
HOW TO TAKE FOSAMAX:
Take FOSAMAX with 6 to 8 ounces (180ml-240ml) of plain water once
each week. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not suck or chew them.
FOSAMAX must be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before
eating or drinking anything other than water, (including other
medicines or vitamins). Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes
after taking it.
SIDE EFFECTS:
The most common side effect is stomach pain. Other less common side
effects are nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach fullness, gas,
constipation, diarrhea, headache or altered taste. Notify your
doctor if you notice an increase in muscle or bone pain, severe
heartburn or chest pain, black or tarry stools. If you notice other
effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
FOSAMAX should not be used by patients with kidney disease, low
blood calcium levels, or if allergic to biphosphonates. The effects
of FOSAMAX have not been studied in children. Tell your doctor if
you have trouble swallowing, have a history of ulcers or any other
gastrointestinal problems. It is also important to not smoke and to
limit the amount of alcohol used as these can increase the risk of
osteoporosis. FOSAMAX should not be used by pregnant or nursing
women.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you
may use, especially of estrogens, aspirin and other arthritis
medication (NSAID). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor
or pharmacist approval.
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.
NOTES:
It is very important to not take FOSAMAX with anything other than
water. Even juice and coffee have been found to interfere with its
absorption. Exercising regularly and acquiring calcium in the diet
via eating well-balanced meals can help reduce the risk of
osteoporosis. Your doctor will advise you if you should take
supplemental calcium as well as vitamin D.
MISSED DOSE:
If you should miss a dose, take it the next morning after you
remember. Then resume taking your weekly dose on your originally
scheduled day of the week. Do not take two doses on the same day.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist.
STORAGE:
Store FOSAMAX between 58 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away
from moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For
information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In
Canada call 1-800-668-1507.
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