FOSAMAX

Drug Name: FOSAMAX

FOSAMAX DESCRIPTION:
ALENDRONATE - ORAL (al-EN-droh-nate)

COMMON FOSAMAX BRAND NAME(S):
Fosamax

FOSAMAX SIDE EFFECTS:
The most common side effect is stomach pain. Other less common side effects are nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach fullness, gas, constipation, diarrhea, headache or altered taste. Notify your doctor if you notice: an increase in muscle or bone pain, severe heartburn, chest pain, black or tarry stools. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE FOSAMAX:
FOSAMAX: Take FOSAMAX with 6 to 8 ounces (180ml-240ml) of plain water once daily. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not suck or chew them. FOSAMAX must be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than water, (including other medicines or vitamins). Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it.

FOSAMAX USES:
Alendronate is used to treat certain cases of osteoporosis (brittle bones) and Paget's disease (a bone weakening disorder).

FOSAMAX PRECAUTIONS:
FOSAMAX should not be used by patients with kidney disease, low blood calcium levels, or if allergic to biphosphonates. Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: trouble swallowing, ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems. It is also important to not smoke and to limit the amount of alcohol used as these can increase the risk of osteoporosis. FOSAMAX should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.

FOSAMAX DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: estrogens, aspirin, other arthritis medication (NSAID such as ibuprofen). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

FOSAMAX OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach upset or pain, heartburn, and esophageal pain.

FOSAMAX NOTES:
It is very important to not take FOSAMAX with anything other than water. Even juice and coffee have been found to interfere with its absorption. Exercising regularly and acquiring calcium in the diet via eating well-balanced meals can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Your doctor will advise you if you should take supplemental calcium as well as vitamin D.

MISSED FOSAMAX DOSE:
If you should miss a dose, do not take it later in the day. Instead skip the missed dose and continue your usual dosing schedule the next morning.

FOSAMAX STORAGE:
Store FOSAMAX between 58 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.