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Fosamax and Diarrhea: What Users Say

Diarrhea: mentioned by 6 users (7.9%)

Based on user experiences from 76 Fosamax reviews, the following table shows the most commonly mentioned side effects.

All user comments are moderated by Drugs.com. Each review is verified for relevance and screened for inappropriate content. Side effects are user-reported and not clinically verified.

pain 22.4%
headaches 13.2%
joint pain 10.5%
bone pain 9.2%
nausea 9.2%
back pain 7.9%
chills 7.9%
diarrhea 7.9%
body aches 6.6%
fatigue 6.6%

Reviews for Fosamax

Commonly mentioned side effects
  • pai...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • April 22, 2023

For Prevention of Osteoporosis "After a freak accident where I slipped on a waxed floor and broke my hip, I was put on Fosamax for two years. However, my doctor eventually advised me to discontinue using it due to severe joint pain in my shoulders, neck, legs, feet, and back, as well as the development of TMJ and cramps in my feet. I also experienced tingling in my feet, hands, and arms, increased blood pressure, and three days of diarrhea every time I took the pill as prescribed once a week. I was always in pain and unable to sleep. Despite being an avid walker, I was unable to walk without pain. After being off the medication for two weeks, I am finally starting to get back to walking my 5 miles a day. I am hopeful that I will completely recover from the effects of the medication. In my opinion, the makers of this drug should provide compensation to everyone who has taken it."

1 / 10
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  • Tro...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • October 16, 2020

For Osteoporosis "Used it twice. Stopped taking it. I can't recommend it. My doctor prescribed it because I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. First dose was very bad. Diarrhea, stomach pain like ulcers, very tired. Second dose was even worse. Diarrhea, SEVERE stomach cramps, I thought of going to the hospital. Joint pains in my ankle and knee. Do NOT use if you have any stomach problems. It feels like it is damaging, eating the stomach lining. Very scary experience."

1 / 10
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318 Report
  • She...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • January 25, 2020

For Osteoporosis "First dose of the weekly today — I have had diarrhea all day, cannot leave the house. My butt is so raw. I am using my baby grandson's Desitin. Every time I get up to go to the bathroom, I feel really dizzy, and my knees are a little painful. I can only be thankful that I started this on my day off of work. Hopefully, this diarrhea stops by tomorrow. For one, I will NOT BE TAKING A SECOND DOSE OF THIS. I am done with Fosamax."

1 / 10
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94 Report

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Frequently asked questions

  • Dow...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 14, 2021

For Osteoporosis "I took my first weekly dose of Fosamax on Monday. Eight hours later, diarrhea began, along with a lower backache. On Tuesday morning, I woke up to a severe backache, back and abdominal muscle spasms, and severe pain in my right hand. I am unable to write, pick up a glass, or do even the most minor thing. I can barely get up out of a chair. Now, I'm running a low-grade fever and have chills. This is a horrible medication. I will not take a second pill. I can only pray this passes."

1 / 10
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  • Boo...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • March 15, 2022

For Osteoporosis "I was asymptomatic but deemed high risk for fracture since diagnosed with osteoporosis. I respect some who’ve actually benefited from Fosamax. However, this has been a drug nightmare with symptoms similar to others here on this site. First week taking weekly Fosamax 70 followed next day by nonstop diarrhea for remainder of the week. Second week dose 2 had ongoing diarrhea, chills, nausea, fatigue, and debilitating cramps as if punched repeatedly in the stomach. To my FP’s irritation, I strongly refused further treatment after 2 weeks, stopping prior to the 3rd dose. Also declined Prolia injectable as an alternative as it must be followed by oral biophosphonates after injections are discontinued. I’m still dealing with diarrhea and fatigue impacting the quality of life. Please do extensive reading on side effects before pursuing Fosamax or other bone health drugs. I’m now pursuing a more natural option through exercise, nutrition, vitamins D3, calcium, K2, and fish oil."

1 / 10
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35 Report
  • Mar...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 19, 2020

For Prevention of Osteoporosis "Fosamax gave me absolutely shocking joint pain and diarrhea all the time."

1 / 10
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64 Report

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Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.