Fosamax

Why should Fosamax not be prescribed?

You should not take Fosamax if the calcium level in your blood is low. Avoid Fosamax if it causes an allergic reaction.

You will not be able to take Fosamax if you are unable to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes. You must also avoid the drug if your esophagus is not working properly due to strictures or achalasia (a swallowing disorder).

If you're prone to swallowing air or choking when you drink something, you should not use the oral solution.

Special warnings about Fosamax

Fosamax is not recommended for women on hormone replacement therapy, or for women with kidney problems.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing or have any digestive problems, including heartburn or ulcers. Fosamax may cause problems in your esophagus such as inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, and in rare cases, blockage or perforation.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Fosamax

Combining aspirin with a Fosamax dose of more than 10 milligrams per day will increase the likelihood of stomach upset.

Calcium supplements such as Caltrate, antacids such as Riopan, and some other oral medications will interfere with the absorption of Fosamax, so wait at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax before you take anything else.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Fosamax during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Fosamax appears in breast milk. The drug is not recommended for nursing mothers.

Recommended dosage

TREATMENT OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS

The usual dose is one 10-milligram tablet once a day, or one 70-milligram tablet or bottle of oral solution once a week. Treatment continues for years.

PREVENTION OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS

The usual dose is one 5-milligram tablet once a day or one 35-milligram tablet once a week.

OSTEOPOROSIS IN MEN

The usual dose is one 10-milligram tablet once a day, or one 70-milligram tablet or bottle of oral solution once a week.