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What is Fosamax?
Fosamax is the brand name for alendronate sodium. Fosamax is prescribed for
the treatment of osteoporosis (thinning of bone) in women after menopause. It is
most commonly prescribed to be taken once weekly and is available in both pill
and liquid forms.
How does Fosamax work?
Fosamax works by:
- Reducing the activity of the cells that cause bone loss
- Decreasing the faster rate of bone loss that occurs after
menopause
- Increasing the amount of bone in most patients
These effects are seen as soon as three months after Fosamax therapy has
begun. These effects continue as long as you keep taking Fosamax. The density of
bone increases and the bone is less likely to fracture. Thus, Fosamax reverses
the progression of osteoporosis.
Who should not take Fosamax?
Patients should not take Fosamax if they have any of the following
conditions:
- Low levels of calcium in their blood
- Severe kidney disease
- Allergy to Fosamax
In addition, patients should not take Fosamax if they are pregnant or
nursing. (Fosamax is for use by women after menopause. If you
are pregnant or nursing, you should not take Fosamax. Talk to your doctor.)
What medical problems should I discuss with my doctor before he or she
prescribes Fosamax?
Before your doctor prescribes Fosamax, be sure to talk to your doctor about:
- Problems with swallowing
- Digestive problems
- Other medical problems you have or have had in the past
What are the possible side effects of Fosamax?
Like all prescription drugs, Fosamax may cause side effects. In the past,
patients who have taken Fosamax have usually had mild side effects. The side
effects generally have not caused patients to stop taking Fosamax.
Some patients treated with Fosamax in clinical studies experienced abdominal
(stomach) pain, which was the most commonly reported side effect.
Less frequently reported side effects were other digestive problems such as:
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Irritation or pain of the esophagus (the tube that connects
your mouth with your stomach)
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- A full or bloated feeling in the stomach
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Gas
Muscle/bone pain, headaches, or an altered sense of taste were also
experienced by some patients. in rare cases, rashes may occur. Anytime you have
a medical problem you think may be related to Fosamax, talk to your doctor.
Please remember…
This information does not take the place of careful discussions with your
doctor. You and your doctor should discuss Fosamax when you start taking your
medication and at regular checkups.
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