Fosamax

Uses

Fosamax is indicated in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in women who have passed the menopausal age. It reduces the incidence of fractures and increases the bone mass, thus preventing osteoporosis. Other uses include the treatment of osteoporosis in men by increasing the bone mass, and in the treatment of osteoporosis in those who are receiving a daily dosage of glucocorticoids greater than or equivalent to 7.5 mg of prednisone. It is also used to treat Paget’s disease.

Dosage

Fosamax comes in the form of tablets to be taken orally on an empty stomach. Drink the tablet with at least 8 ounces of water. The tablet should be taken only with water and not milk, juice, coffee or other beverages. Wait at least 30 minutes after you have taken the tablet to eat or drink anything. Swallow the tablet whole – do not break or crush or chew on the tablet. Sit upright for at least half an hour after taking the tablet to enable the dosage to be really effective. This will also prevent heartburn.

Warnings

If you have esophagus ulcers, narrowing of the esophagus or other conditions that prevent you from swallowing properly, kidney disease, an inability to stand or sit upright for 30 minutes, inform your doctor. Fosamax belongs to the FDA pregnancy category C which means that its effects on the fetus are not known. If you’re pregnant, don’t take this medication without informing your doctor. It’s also not known if the medication is passed on through breast milk. If you’re nursing, consult your doctor before starting this medication.

Missed dose

If you miss a daily dose of Fosamax, simply skip that dose, and resume your normal dosage the next day. Missing a single tablet doesn’t decrease efficacy. If you’re on a weekly dose of a single tablet, take the missed dose the very next day, and resume your normal weekly dosage schedule from the very next week. Don’t take two tablets on the same day.

Side effects

Mild side effects like stomach upset, abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, soreness in the joints, constipation, eye pains, headache, rashes, or a temporary change in the sense of taste may be seen. Continue taking Fosamax and talk to your doctor about these side effects. In case of allergic reactions like hives, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, face and tongue, discontinue use and seek emergency medical attention immediately. If there is burning under the ribs, or chest pain or heart burin, seek emergency medical attention and talk to your doctor. If you notice other symptoms, bring these to the attention of your doctor.

Storage

Store at room temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include heartburn, upset stomach, ulcers and other upper gastrointestinal effects, Hypocalcaemia and hypophosphatemia. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.