FOSAMAX

This medicine contains the active ingredient alendronic acid, which belongs to a group of non-hormonal medicines called bisphosphonates. Alendronic acid prevents and slows the loss of bone, and it reduces the risk of spine and hip fractures. This loss usually occurs in women after the menopause, and it is called osteoporosis.

Alendronic acid not only prevents the loss of bone but actually helps to rebuild bone you may have lost. You may be prescribed alendronic acid to take once a day (10 mg strength tablets), or once a week (70 mg strength tablets).

Is Alendronic Acid suitable for me?

Alendronic acid is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to alendronic acid or other ingredients of this medicine
• if you have certain problems with your gullet
• if you cannot stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes
• if you have low blood calcium

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have kidney problems
• have any swallowing or digestive problems
• have Barrett's esophagus
• have low blood calcium
• have poor dental health, gum disease, or planned dental surgery
• have cancer
• are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• are taking corticosteroids
• are or have been a smoker
• are pregnant or breast-feeding
• have had a stomach ulcer, stomach bleeding or any surgery on your upper digestive system within the last year

Alendronic acid interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Alendronic Acid?

This medicine is available in form of a tablet.

You should take alendronic acid exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The usual dose for 10 mg tablet is once a day. 70 mg tablet is taken once a week on a chosen day.
• The tablet is taken in the morning, 30 minutes before food or drink other than water. Do not lie down during this time.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Alendronic Acid side effects?

Like all medicines alendronic acid can cause side effects, including:

Very common:

• bone, muscle and/or joint pain

Common:

• nausea; vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation
• irritation or inflammation of the gullet or stomach
• black stools
• blurred vision; pain or redness in the eye
• rash and redness of the skin
• flu-like symptoms

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.