Alendronate and cholecalciferol
Generic name: alendronate and cholecalciferol [ a-LEN-dro-nate-and-KOL-e-cal-SIF-er-ol ]
Brand name: Fosamax Plus D
Dosage form: oral tablet (70 mg-2800 intl units; 70 mg-5600 intl units)
Drug class:Bisphosphonates
What is alendronate and cholecalciferol?
Alendronate is a bisphosphonate (bis FOS fo nayt) medicine that alters bone formation and breakdown in the body. This can slow bone loss and may help prevent bone fractures.
Cholecalciferol is a form of vitamin D, and is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take alendronate and cholecalciferol if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.
Do not take this medicine tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Alendronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take this medicine if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.
Do not take this medicine tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Alendronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication.
To make sure alendronate and cholecalciferol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
low blood calcium (hypocalcemia);
a cancer such as sarcoidosis, leukemia, lymphoma;
kidney disease; or
an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus.
In rare cases, this medicine may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw. Symptoms include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work. The longer you use alendronate and cholecalciferol, the more likely you are to develop this condition.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw may be more likely if you have cancer or received <...
