Generic name: alendronate [ a-LEN-dro-nate ]
Brand names: Binosto, Fosamax
Dosage forms: oral solution (70 mg/75 mL); oral tablet (10 mg; 35 mg; 40 mg; 5 mg; 70 mg); oral tablet, effervescent (70 mg)
Drug class:Bisphosphonates
What is alendronate?
Alendronate is used to treat osteoporosis caused by menopause, steroid use, or gonadal failure. alendronate is for use when you have a high risk of bone fracture due to osteoporosis.
Alendronate is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone.
Alendronate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take alendronate if you have problems with your esophagus, or low levels of calcium in your blood.
Do not take alendronate if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine.
Alendronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus. Stop using alendronate and call your doctor at once if you have chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or pain when swallowing.
Also call your doctor if you have muscle spasms, numbness or tingling (in hands and feet or around the mouth), new or unusual hip pain, or severe pain in your joints, bones, or muscles.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take alendronate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia); or
problems with the muscles...
