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.
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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