Drug Interactions between alendronate / cholecalciferol and parathyroid hormone

Treatment with cholecalciferol may require you to adjust your dietary intake of foods which contain natural or added calcium, phosphate (organic and inorganic), and vitamin D. Ingesting too much vitamin D or having elevated calcium and/or phosphorus levels in the blood and urine can lead to toxic effects, such as having an irregular heart rhythm, seizures, kidney stones, and eventual calcification of your blood vessels, cornea and/or the soft tissues in your body. Your doctor will monitor the levels of calcium and phosphorus in your blood during treatment with cholecalciferol. Please speak with your healthcare team to determine if you require a specialized diet, particularly if you have reduced kidney function, and to discuss any other questions or concerns you have. You may require additional monitoring or a dose adjustment of cholecalciferol if your diet changes. Fortified foods will state on their labeling how much calcium, phosphate, and/or vitamin D has been added. The National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements also provides information on which foods contain calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. You should avoid abrupt changes in your dietary calcium intake and seek medical attention if you experience early symptoms of vitamin D intoxication such as weakness, fatigue, headache, drowsiness, vertigo, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, metallic taste, muscle pain, bone pain, muscle incoordination, and low muscle tone. Late symptoms may include frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, conjunctivitis ("pink eye"), light sensitivity, runny nose, itching, increased body temperature, and irregular heart rhythm. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Food may reduce the absorption of alendronate, which may lead to lower blood levels of the medication and possibly reduced effectiveness. You should take alendronate first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medication. Take each dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water, and use only plain water (not mineral or vitamin water). Do not take alendronate if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Because alendronate can cause irritation and ulcer in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach), you will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions on how to take this or other medications you are prescribed. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

The recommended maximum number of medicines in the 'bone resorption inhibitors' category to be taken concurrently is usually one. Your list includes two medicines belonging to the 'bone resorption inhibitors' category:

• alendronate/cholecalciferol
• parathyroid hormone

Note: In certain circumstances, the benefits of taking this combination of drugs may outweigh any risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or dosage.