Alendronate

Merck & Co. | Alendronate (Medication)

Desc:

Alendronate is a medicine used to prevent and treat osteoporosis in women after menopause. It 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. It may also be used to treat Paget's disease of the bone.

Take Alendronate exactly as directed. This drug is taken by mouth with a full glass of plain water on an empty stomach. It should be taken as soon as you wake up in the morning and at least 30 minutes before any food, beverage, or other medicines. ...

Side Effect:

The most common side effect of Alendronate is abdominal or stomach cramps. Other less serious side effects include:nausea, constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating or fullness in the stomach, change in ability to taste food, headache, dizziness, swelling of the joints, hands, or legs. If any of these persist or get worsen seek medical help.

More serious side effects, that need immediately care are:new or worsening heartburn; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; black, tarry, or bloody stools; fever; blisters or peeling skin; rash (may be made worse by sunlight); itching; hives; swelling of eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; hoarseness; painful or swollen gums; loosening of the teeth; numbness or heavy feeling in the jaw; eye pain; dull, aching pain in the hips, groin, or thighs. ...

Precaution:

Before using Alendronate tell your health provider if you are allergic to this medicine, or to other medicine, food, dye or animals. Also tell your doctor if you undergoing radiation therapy and if you have or have ever had anemia; a low level of vitamin D in your body; difficulty swallowing; heartburn; ulcers or other stomach problems;cancer; any type of infection, especially in your mouth; problems with your mouth, teeth, or gums; any condition that stops your blood from clotting normally; or dental or kidney disease.

It is not recommended to take this medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding without your doctor advice, due to the fact Alendronate may remain in your body for years after you stop taking it. ...