Drug Uses

Fosamax is a medication used for osteoporosis treatment in postmenopausal women. It increases bone mass, and reduces the fractures, including those to the hip and spine. It is also used to treat induced osteoporosis in men and women receiving glucocorticoids in a daily dosage equivalent to 7.5 mg or greater of prednisone and who have low bone mineral density, treatment of Paget's disease of bone in men and women.

How Taken

Fosamax typical usage is one tablet daily, in the morning on the empty stomach with full glass of water. Meal can be consumed no earlier than 30 minutes after taking medication. It shouldn't be flushed with mineral water, coffee, orange juice, milk, or other dairy products. Tablet need to be swallowed whole, not sucked, chewed or crushed. You shouldn't lie down for at least 30 minutes after using Fosamax. Standing, or sitting helps getting a full dose and decreases the risk of heartburn or esophagus injury.

Warnings/Precautions

If you have problem swallowing, have esophageal ulcers or disease, have low levels of calcium, kidney disease stomach ulcers or other problems with stomach or digestive system, or if you are unable to stand or sit for thirty minutes you should notify your doctor, before starting treatment with Fosamax. As it is not known if Fosamax can harm unborn baby or if it passes into breast milk, you should consult your doctor before starting treatment if pregnant, or breast feeding.

Missed Dose

If you miss a daily dose you should not take double doses the next day, instead you should follow your normal schedule. However if you are dosing Fosamax weekly, and miss one dose you should take that dose next morning as you remember. Basically you shouldn't take two tablets at once.

Possible Side Effects

If you happen to experience an allergic reaction you should stop taking Fosamax and seek emergency or talk to your doctor, also if you have difficulty or pain when swallowing, chest pain, pain or burning under the ribs or in the back, or new or worsening heartburn you should talk to your doctor. If you happen to experience abdominal discomfort, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, headache, muscle, bone, or joint soreness or aches, eye pain, a rash or an altered sense of taste or any other side effects not mentioned above you should also consult your doctor.

Storage

Fosamax should be stored in well closed container at temperatures of 15-30°C (59-86°F).

Overdose

If you suspect overdose you should call emergency room or poison control center. Overdose effects include hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and upper gastrointestinal adverse events, such as upset stomach, heartburn, esophagitis, gastritis, or ulcer.

More Information

Drinking alcohol and smoking should be consulted with your doctor, as these activities are related with decreased bone density. Some antacids and other medicines may decrease Fosamax effects. You shouldn't take any other medicines within thirty minutes after dose of Fosamax.

Disclaimer

Information presented on this page is for informational purposes only. This information doesn't cover all interactions, precautions or adverse effects of treatment with this medicament. We disclaim all responsibility for any consequences, which may arise while taking this drug without proper consultation with doctor or pharmacist. We give no warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.