Fosamax Oral

In Depth

disorders of the esophagus (e.g., esophageal stricture or achalasia)
inability to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes
low calcium levels
severe kidney disease

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

trouble swallowing
stomach/intestinal disorders (e.g., ulcers)

Infrequently, people taking this class of medication (bisphosphonates) have had serious jawbone problems (osteonecrosis). Lack of proper dental hygiene, poorly fitting dentures, or certain dental procedures (such as tooth extraction, dental surgery) may increase your risk. Medical conditions (such as gum disease/infection, cancer, anemia) might also increase the risk. If you develop jaw pain, tell your doctor and dentist immediately.

Before having any surgery (especially dental procedures), tell your doctor and dentist about this medication and all other products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your doctor or dentist may tell you to stop taking alendronate before your surgery. Ask for specific instructions about stopping or starting this medication.

This drug is not recommended for use in children. Studies have shown that many children who took this drug had severe side effects such as vomiting, fever, and flu-like symptoms.

Caution is advised if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future. Alendronate may stay in your body for many years. Its effects on an unborn baby are not known. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting treatment with alendronate.

It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

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