[an error occurred while processing this directive]
|
Alendronate
Alendronate (brand name Fosamax) is a medication from the class of drugs called bisphosphonates. Like estrogen and raloxifene, alendronate is approved for both the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Alendronate is also used to treat the bone loss from glucocorticoid medications like prednisone or cortisone and is approved for the treatment of osteoporosis in men. In post-menopausal women with osteoporosis, the bisphosphonate alendronate reduces bone loss, increases bone density in both the spine and hip, and reduces the risk of both spine fractures and hip fractures.
|  |
|
Side effects from alendronate are uncommon but may include abdominal or musculoskeletal pain, nausea, heartburn, or irritation of the esophagus. The medication should be taken on an empty stomach and with a full glass of water first thing in the morning. After taking alendronate, it is important to wait in an upright position for at least one half-hour, or preferably one hour, before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day. It is taken in pill form once a week.
|
