Fosamax Plus D
Generic name:alendronate and cholecalciferol [ a-LEN-dro-nate-and-KOL-e-cal-SIF-er-ol ]
Drug class:Bisphosphonates
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 29, 2021.
What is Fosamax Plus D?
Fosamax Plus D contains a combination of alendronate and cholecalciferol. Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medicine that alters bone formation and breakdown in the body. This can slow bone loss and may help prevent bone fractures.
Cholecalciferol is a form of vitamin D, and is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.
Fosamax Plus D is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis.
Fosamax Plus D may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take Fosamax Plus D if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.
Do not take a Fosamax Plus D tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Alendronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax Plus D.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take Fosamax Plus D if you have low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia), or a problem with the movement of muscles in your esophagus.
Do not take a Fosamax Plus D tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Alendronate can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax Plus D.
To make sure Fosamax Plus D is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
low blood calcium (hypocalcemia);
a cancer such as sarcoidosis, leukemia, lymphoma;
a vitamin D deficiency;
kidney disease; or
an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus.
In rare cases, this medicine may cause bone loss (osteonecrosis) in the jaw. Symptoms include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, or slow healing after dental work. The longer you use Fosamax Plus D, the more likely you are to develop this condition.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw may be more likely if you have cancer or received chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other risk factors include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre existing dental problem.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
It is not known whether Fosamax Plus D will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether alendronate and cholecalciferol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
