Brand name: OSTEOFOS (Fosamax, Alendronate Sodium)
Pronounced: FAH-suh-max
Generic name: Alendronate sodium
Why is Osteofos prescribed?

Osteofos is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, the brittle bone disease, in postmenopausal women. It is also used to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis, and is prescribed for both men and women who have developed a form of osteoporosis sometimes caused by steroid medications such as prednisone. This drug can also be used to relieve Paget's disease of bone, a painful condition that weakens and deforms the bones.
Most important fact about Osteofos

For Osteofos to be effective, you must take the tablets without food or other medications, exactly as directed.
How should you use medication?

Osteofos is effective only when each tablet or bottle of oral solution is taken with a full glass of plain water first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or other medication. If you can wait longer before eating or drinking, Osteofos will be absorbed better. Do not lie down after taking Osteofos until at least 30 minutes have passed and you've had something to eat.

Avoid chewing or sucking on the tablet; it can cause mouth sores.

You should take calcium and vitamin D supplements if you don't get enough in your diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Weight-bearing exercise can also strengthen bones.

Storage instructions...

Keep the container tightly closed and store at room temperature. Do not freeze the oral solution.
Osteofos side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Osteofos.

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, Acid regurgitation, bone and joint pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, indi­gestion, muscle pain, nausea

Why should Osteofos not be prescribed?

You should not take Osteofos if the calcium level in your blood is low. Avoid Osteofos if it causes an allergic reaction.

You will not be able to take Osteofos if you are unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes. You must also avoid the drug if your esophagus is not working properly due to strictures or achalasia (a swallowing disorder).

If you're prone to swallowing air or choking when you drink something, you should not use the oral solution.
Special warnings about Osteofos

Osteofos is not recommended for women on hormone replacement therapy, or for women with kidney problems.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing or have any digestive problems, including heartburn or ulcers. Osteofos may cause problems in your esophagus such as inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, and in rare cases, blockage or perforation.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Osteofos

Combining aspirin with a Osteofos dose of more than 10 milligrams per day will increase the likelihood of stomach upset.

Calcium supplements such as Caltrate, antacids such as Riopan, and some other oral medications will interfere with the absorption of Osteofos, so wait at least 30 minutes after taking Osteofos before you take anything else.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Osteofos during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Osteofos appears in breast milk. The drug is not recommended for nursing mothers.
Recommended dosage for Osteofos

TREATMENT OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

* Symptoms of Osteofos overdose may include:
Heartburn, inflammation of the esophagus or stomach, ulcer, upset stomach

If you miss a dose...

If you are taking Osteofos on a daily basis, do not take a missed dose later in the day, Instead, skip it and go back to your regular schedule the next morning.

If you are taking Osteofos once a week, take 1 tablet or 1 bottle of oral solution the morning after you remember, then return to your original once-weekly schedule on the chosen day. Do not take 2 doses on the same day