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Fosamax (a-LEN-dro-nate) is used to prevent or treat osteoporosis (thinning of the bone) in women after menopause and to treat osteoporosis in men. It may also be used to treat Paget's disease of bone and osteoporosis (thinning of the bone) caused by glucocorticoid treatment. Fosamax is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Fosamax is used to prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who have undergone menopause (change of life). Fosamax is also used to treat osteoporosis in men and women who have developed the disease due to natural causes or because they took corticosteroids (a type of medication that may cause osteoporosis). Fosamax is also used to treat Paget's disease of the bone (a condition in which the body replaces healthy bones with weak bones). Fosamax is in a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by preventing bone breakdown and increasing bone density (thickness) to make bones stronger and less likely to break. Fosamax comes as a tablet and a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. The liquid is usually taken on an empty stomach once a week in the morning. The tablets are usually taken on an empty stomach once a day in the morning or once a week in the morning. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Fosamax exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Fosamax may not work properly and may damage the esophagus (tube between the mouth and stomach) or cause sores in the mouth if it is not taken according to the following instructions. Tell your doctor if you do not understand, do not think you will remember, or are unable to follow these instructions. You must take Fosamax immediately after you get out of bed in the morning, and before you eat or drink anything. Never take Fosamax at bedtime or before you get up for the day. Swallow the tablets with a full glass (6-8 ounces) of plain water, and drink at least a quarter of a cup (2 ounces) of plain water after drinking Fosamax liquid. Never take Fosamax with tea, coffee, juice, mineral water, or any liquid other than plain water. Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, crush, or suck on them. After you take Fosamax, do not eat, drink, or take any other medications for at least 30 minutes. Do not lie down immediately after you take Fosamax. Sit or stand upright until at least 30 minutes have passed and you have eaten your first food of the day. Fosamax controls osteoporosis and Paget's disease of the bone, but does not cure these conditions. Fosamax helps to prevent osteoporosis only as long as it is taken regularly. Continue to take Fosamax even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Fosamax without talking to your doctor. Buy Fosamax (U.S. only) or read more info about Fosamax. Brand names: - Alendronate - Fosamax |