Generic name:alendronate [ a-LEN-dro-nate ]
Brand names: Binosto, Fosamax
Drug class:Bisphosphonates
What is Fosamax?
Fosamax is a bisphosphonate (bis FOS fo nayt) medicine that alters bone formation and breakdown in the body. This can slow bone loss and may help prevent bone fractures.
Fosamax is used in women to treat or prevent osteoporosis caused by menopause and in men and women to treat osteoporosis caused by taking steroids.
Fosamax is also used to increase bone mass in men who have osteoporosis, and to treat Paget's disease of bone in men and women.
Warnings
You should not take Fosamax if you have problems with your esophagus, or low levels of calcium in your blood.
Do not take Fosamax if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine.
Fosamax can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or pain when swallowing.
In rare cases, this medicine may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw or a broken leg bone called a femur fracture. Symptoms of osteonecrosis include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work. Symptoms of a femur fracture include leg or groin pain.
Also call your doctor if you have muscle spasms, numbness or tingling (in hands and feet or around the mouth), new or unusual hip pain, or severe pain in your joints, bones, or muscles.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take Fosamax if you are allergic to alendronate, or if you have:...
