What is the brand name for alendronate?

Alendronate is commonly known by the brand name Fosamax®. Fosamax® is a bisphosphonate and is used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Fosamax® decreases the rate bone cells are absorbed. This reduced absorption allows the body to increase bone density, which in turn reduces the risk of fracture.

What is alendronate used for?

Alendronate is used to prevent and treat osteoporosis (thinning of the bone) in women after menopause. This medicine may also be used to increase bone mass in men who have osteoporosis, and in men and women to prevent and treat osteoporosis caused by long-term use of corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicine).

Can you take vitamin D with alendronate?

Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between Fosamax and Vitamin D3. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

What is the safest osteoporosis drug 2020?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Evenity (romosozumab-aqqg) to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of breaking a bone (fracture).

Why is alendronate taken once a week?

Administering alendronate (70 mg) once a week effectively provides continuous inhibition of bone resorption because bone resorption by osteoclasts is a slow process that typically requires 2-3 weeks for completion and alendronate remains at active bone remodelling sites for a sustained period and (when present in …

What drugs should not be taken with alendronate?

Calcium or iron supplements, vitamins, antacids, coffee, tea, soda, mineral water, calcium-enriched juices, and food can decrease the absorption of alendronate. Do not take these for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1 to 2 hours) after taking alendronate.

Why does alendronate need to be taken on an empty stomach?

Alendronate is one of several medicines known as bisphosphonates that are mainly used to reduce bone loss in older adults. The bisphosphonates as a class are poorly absorbed under the best conditions. It is important to take them on an empty stomach.

Is alendronate safe to take?

Alendronate can potentially interact with a number of medications (see Drug Interactions With Alendronate). Alendronate is considered a pregnancy Category C medication. This means that it may not be safe for use during pregnancy (see Fosamax and Pregnancy).

Is alendronate a controlled substance?

Alendronate is used in the treatment of osteoporosis; prevention of osteoporosis; paget’s disease and belongs to the drug class bisphosphonates. Risk cannot be ruled out during pregnancy. Alendronate 10 mg is not a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

Is alendronate cause damage to the esophagus?

Alendronate can cause chemical esophagitis, including severe ulcerations, in some patients.