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Comparing Fosamax

Fosamax

alendronate

Fosamax helps to reduce the risk of fracture in people with osteoporosis and some other bone conditions. Dosage instructions, including remaining upright for at least 30 minutes and taking with a... more

Prescription only

Ratings & Reviews

Recent helpful reviews
4.4
16 Reviews

For Osteoporosis I started taking Fosamax for Osteoporosis and I have had a low back pain and body aches the first week, and on the second week I have had severe headache that lasted over two days, now its a dull headache. I'm not to sure on this medicine, I'm worried about the side effects. I hope the effects get better not worse.

3
sunshine123#

For Osteoporosis My bone density improved while taking Fosamax. However, I had nausea, intense heartburn, gained 20 pounds, and had to start taking prescription stomach medications due to gastric problems. Finally, I stopped taking it, lost 20 pounds, felt much better and could eat again, but my doctor is now telling me I have lost significant bone mass since stopping this medication. Will now try Atelvia with calcium supplements.

3
Anonymous

View all 16 reviews

Drug Class

Side Effects

Common side effects include: decreased serum calcium, and decreased serum phosphate.

See the full Fosamax side effects document.

Pricing and Coupons

* Prices are without insurance
Quantity 4 tablet
Dosage 70 mg
Per Unit* $35.49
Cost* $141.97
View all Fosamax prices
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Generic Availability

Yes

Dosage Form(s) Available
  • Oral tablet

Brand Names
Other alendronate brands include: Binosto

Half Life

The half-life of a drug is the time taken for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce to half its original value.

N/A

CSA Schedule**

View glossary of terms.
N
Not a controlled drug

Is not subject to the Controlled Substances Act.

Pregnancy Category
C
Category C Risk cannot be ruled out

See the full Pregnancy Warnings document.

FDA Alerts

FDA Alerts (3)

Drug Interactions

A total of 225 drugs are known to interact with Fosamax:

  • 2 major drug interactions (6 brand and generic names)
  • 218 moderate drug interactions (2211 brand and generic names)
  • 5 minor drug interactions (53 brand and generic names)

Alcohol/Food/Lifestyle Interactions
  • Food may reduce the absorption of alendronate, which may lead to lower blood levels of the... more

Disease Interactions

First Approval Date

September 29, 1995

WADA Class

View World Anti-Doping Agency classifications.

N/A

More Information

Consumer Resources

Professional Resources

Related Treatment Guide

** The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) schedule information displayed applies to substances regulated under federal law. There may be variations in CSA schedules between individual states.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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