Alendronate (Fosamax)

Category:

• Miscellaneous

Description:

• Bone resorption inhibitor, antiosteoporotic

Indications:

• Treatment and prophylaxis of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

• Paget’s disease of the bone

Contraindications:

• Hypocalcemia, esophageal abnormalities, delayed esophageal emptying

• Patient unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes after administration

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category C

• CrCl < 35 ml/min

• Uncorrected mineral deficiencies (i.e. calcium, vitamin D)

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• CNS: headache

• GI: abdominal distention, abdominal pain, acid regurgitation, dysphagia, esophageal ulcer, flatulence, gastritis

• METAB: hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia

• MS: musculoskeletal pain

• SKIN: erythema, rash

• MISC: drug fever

Dosage:

Administered orally (tablet)

Adult:

• Osteoporosis (prophylaxis): 

  • PO 5mg daily

• Osteoporosis (treatment): 

  • PO 10mg daily

• Paget’s disease: PO 40mg daily for 6 months

Note: 

• Patients should take medication upon rising in the morning, with a full glass of water on an empty stomach

• Remain upright for at least 30 minutes.  

• Do not eat for at least 30-60 minutes after the dose.