Fosamax 70mg Tablets

Alendronate (alendronic acid) is a bisphosphonate medicine used to treat osteoporosis, where bones become weak and break easily. It slows down how quickly bone is broken down, helping to keep bones strong.

It is also used to help prevent osteoporosis in people at higher risk, for example after the menopause or after long-term steroid tablets. Bones may start getting stronger after 6 to 12 months, but full benefit can take years.

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you. How you take it is very important:

• Take it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food, drinks or other medicines.
• Swallow it with a full glass of plain tap water only (not mineral water, tea, coffee, juice or milk).
• Stay sitting, standing or walking for at least 30 minutes afterwards. Do not lie down or take it at bedtime.
• Weekly tablet missed: take it the morning after you remember, then go back to your usual day. Never take two on the same day.
• Daily tablet missed: skip it and carry on the next morning.

Common side effects include:

• indigestion, bloating, wind, constipation or diarrhoea
• headache, dizziness or a spinning feeling
• muscle, joint or bone pain, or swollen joints
• tiredness and hair loss

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• new or worse heartburn, or pain when swallowing (stop taking it)
• a loose tooth, mouth sores, or pain or swelling in the jaw
• new pain in the thigh, hip or groin
• black or red poo
• painful red eyes or blurred vision
• muscle cramps or tingling around the mouth (low calcium)
• swelling of the lips, mouth or throat, or trouble breathing

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have problems with your food pipe or with swallowing
• cannot stay upright for 30 minutes
• have low blood calcium or kidney problems
• have cancer, are having chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or smoke
• have dental problems or need a tooth removed
• take antacids, calcium, iron, magnesium or zinc supplements, steroids, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, or certain antibiotics

Have regular dental check-ups while taking it.

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Food pipe: taking it the wrong way can irritate or damage your food pipe, so always follow the instructions above.

Jaw: rarely, it can cause damage to the jawbone. Tell your dentist you take it.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: it is not recommended in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are trying for a baby or breastfeeding.