What is the drug alendronate used for?
Alendronate is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who have undergone menopause (”change of life,” end of menstrual periods) and to treat osteoporosis in men.
What drugs should not be taken with alendronate?
Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, antacids, coffee, tea, soda, mineral water, calcium-enriched juices, and food can decrease the absorption of alendronate. Do not take these for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 to 2 hours) after taking alendronate.
What are the long term side effects of alendronate?
Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:
- Ulcers or erosions of your esophagus. Symptoms can include:
- Bone death of your jaw. Symptoms can include:
- Unusual bone breaks in your hip and leg bones.
- Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in your blood).
- Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain.
How safe is alendronate?
Conclusion: This evidence shows alendronate to be safe and effective; it should be considered the nonhormonal therapy of choice for treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at risk for hip and vertebral fractures.
Should calcium be taken with alendronate?
Alendronate — Calcium may interfere with the absorption of alendronate, a medication used to treat osteoporosis. Calcium-containing products should be taken at least 2 hours before or after alendronate.
Is hair loss a side effect of alendronate?
Less common side effects of alendronate include: Hair loss. Diaphyseal femur fracture.
Can you take vitamin D with alendronate?
Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between Fosamax and Vitamin D3. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Should I take calcium with alendronate?
What is ibandronate used to treat?
Ibandronate is used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis). Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break more easily.
What should I know about alendronate before taking it?
A dentist should examine your teeth and perform any needed treatments, including cleaning or fixing ill-fitted dentures, before you start to take alendronate. Be sure to brush your teeth and clean your mouth properly while you are taking alendronate. Talk to your doctor before having any dental treatments while you are taking this medication.
What are the benefits of alendronate sodium tablets for postmenopausal women?
In postmenopausal women, Alendronate sodium tablets, USP increases bone mass and reduces the incidence of fractures, including those of the hip and spine (vertebral compression fractures). [See Clinical Studies ( 14.1 ).]
How do I report side effects of ibandronate in Canada?
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Before taking ibandronate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other bisphosphonates (such as alendronate, etidronate, pamidronate, risedronate); or if you have any other allergies.
