Other Brands/Names

Alovell, Fosamax, Fosamax Plus, Nichospor, Osteofar, Ostric, Voroste.

How It Works

Alendronate sodium is commonly prescribed to help prevent or treat osteoporosis. It works by inhibiting the activity of bone-cells, which increases bone density and gradually helps restore a more normal bone structure.

Indications

Conditions for which alendronate sodium is indicated include osteoporosis, prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, Paget’s disease of bone, and osteoporosis associated with long-term corticosteroid use.

Contraindication

Do not use alendronate sodium in people with hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels), structural or motility disorders of the esophagus (such as esophageal narrowing), or in patients who cannot remain standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes.

Side Effects

Side effects are uncommon, but may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle pain, joint pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, headache, and itching.

Types

Available tablet strengths of alendronate sodium include:

• 10 mg, 40 mg, and 70 mg tablets.

Dosage

• Prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Adults: 5 mg once daily, or 35 mg once weekly.

• Treatment of osteoporosis

Adults: 10 mg once daily, or 70 mg once weekly.

• Paget’s disease of bone

Adults: 40 mg once daily for 6 months.

• Osteoporosis due to corticosteroid use

Adults: 5 mg once daily, or 10 mg daily in postmenopausal women not receiving hormone replacement therapy.

Safety

Pregnancy:

FDA Category C (animal studies have shown adverse fetal effects, and adequate, well-controlled studies in humans are lacking). Use only after carefully weighing potential benefits and risks in pregnant patients.

Drug Interactions

Antacids

Co-administration with antacids can reduce alendronate sodium absorption and diminish its effectiveness. If both are required, use under direct medical guidance and separate dosing times as advised by a clinician.

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