The following information is a
summary. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
COMMON USES
This medicine is a bisphosphonate used to prevent
and treat osteoporosis. It may also be used to treat other conditions
as determined by your doctor.
BEFORE USING
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription
and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL
MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are
taking aspirin and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Inform
your doctor of any other medical conditions or allergies. USE
OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have a history of trouble
swallowing, or low levels of calcium. Contact your doctor or pharmacist
if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.
DIRECTIONS
Follow the directions for using this medicine
provided by your doctor. This medicine comes with a patient information
leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist
any questions that you may have about this medicine. This medicine
is taken once a week. Choose the day of the week that best fits
your schedule. TAKE THIS MEDICINE with 6-8 ounces of PLAIN WATER
ONLY the first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before
eating, drinking, or taking any other medicine. This medicine
works even better if you take it 60 minutes before eating, drinking,
or taking any other medicine. This medicine is effective only
if taken on an empty stomach. DO NOT CHEW OR SUCK on this medicine.
DO NOT LIE DOWN for at least 30 minutes after taking this medicine
and until after your first food of the day. Calcium or iron supplements,
vitamins, or antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum
may interfere with the absorption of this medicine. Take these
products or any other medicines at least 30 minutes after taking
alendronate. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly-closed
container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS
MEDICINE, take it on the morning after you remember. DO NOT take
2 doses at once.
CAUTIONS
It is important to have enough calcium and vitamin
D in your diet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have
questions about your diet or about taking dietary supplements
such as calcium or vitamin D. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW
MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with
your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any medicines which contain
aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING
PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using
this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE
IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING
while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist
to discuss the risks to your baby.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment,
include stomach pain, muscle pain, headache, constipation, stomach
gas, bloating, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If they
continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR
DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience worsening severe heartburn,
or pain upon swallowing. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your
local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include stomach upset or pain, heartburn, and
pain upon swallowing. |
