Fosamax is a drug under the bisphosphonates class that functions to prevent breaking down of bones and at the same time increases bone density. It is the medicine of choice to cure Paget’s disease of bone where the bones become very weak, brittle, deformed and can easily break under pressure. It directly affects the bone cycle in the body preventing damages to occur and ensuring proper absorption of minerals to make it stronger.

•    Always tell your doctor if you are allergic to bisphosphonates or any of its ingredients.
•    Improper use f this drug could lead to serious jawbone problems. If you experience any sign of jaw pain consult your doctor.
•    This drug should not be used by children, as there are recorded incidents of severe side effects.
•    It is important to stay upright or stand up for at least 30minutes after taking the medicine to ensure proper absorption. Inability to do so may cause severe damage to the esophagus and other parts of the gastro-intestinal tract.
•    Very important to drink lots of plain water when taking the drug.

Before taking Fosamax, check with your doctor especially if you previously have or is currently suffering from the following:
•    A history of allergic reaction to antibiotics
•    Difficulty on swallowing
•    Jaw problems as well as dental abnormalities
•    Kidney diseases
•    Liver diseases
•    Irregularities on the stomach or esophagus
•    Low calcium levels in the blood.

Fosamax should be administered only with water, at least half hour before breakfast. It should be taken only after getting up from bed with a full glass of water.
Lying down is forbidden for at least half hour after taking Fosamax.
This medication should not be taken before going to bed or when lying down.

Disregarding these instructions can lead to a high risk of esophageal side effects.

In case of throat irritation or of difficulty or pain when swallowing, stop the use of Fosamax and consult your physician.

Not recommended in breast feeding or pregnant women.

The simultaneous use of Fosamax and other calcium supplements, anti acids or other oral medication could interfere with the assimilation of Fosamax.

This is the reason why at least half an hour should be allowed between Fosamax and other medication.

Important notice: Always consult a doctor before starting treatment with Cipro. Check the leaflet inside for instructions.

Missed doses are considered missed. Leave it and take the next scheduled dosage. Do not overdose to compensate for the missed one. If you remember and still with enough time before the next one, take it, if not then proceed with your regular dosing schedule.

During unexpected and emergency situations, Call for help right away and notify your physician for such matter. You may contact a poison control center or have you taken to the nearest hospital for abrupt treatment; if the person is passed out and not breathing, call 911 or your local emergency response team.
Fosamax overdose can cause heartburn, nausea, stomach pain, bloody vomit, difficulty in swallowing as well as black and tarry stools.

•    Avoid lying down or slouching within 30minutes after taking the medicine to ensure that the drug will be properly dissolved in the stomach.
•    Do not drink any fluid other than plain water when taking Fosamax
•    Taking of vitamins, calcium and antacids should not be taken at least 30 minutes after taking the drug.

Studies show that Fosamax is generally well tolerated.

 

Side effects are usually mild and don't require ending the treatment.

The following gastro - intestinal side effects have been noticed: abdominal pains, esophageal ulcer.

 

Other rare side effects include rash, constipation, diarrhea and flatulence (accumulation of gas in the stomach). 

Drug interactions have the tendency to change the effectiveness of either medicine.
•    NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib as they could cause possible stomach ulcer.
•    Aspirin
•    Piroxicam
•    Indocin
•    Diflunisal
•    Voltaren