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Can you take Alendronate / cholecalciferol with Protonix?

No drug interactions found, but 27 warnings to review for the following 2 drugs:

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Drug interactions

There were no interactions found between alendronate / cholecalciferol and Protonix. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate:

cholecalciferol Food/Lifestyle

Applies to: alendronate / cholecalciferol

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 or grapefruit. 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. Consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice may also alter the blood levels and effects of cholecalciferol. 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.

Moderate:

alendronate Food/Lifestyle

Applies to: alendronate / cholecalciferol

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.

Disease interactions

25 potential interactions Applies to: 23 conditions, including Vitamin D Deficiency, Heart Failure, Asthma, Indigestion, and Osteoporosis.

Arrhythmia

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Arrhythmia.

Vitamin D analogs function to increase serum calcium concentrations and can exacerbate arrhythmias, particularly in patients receiving cardiac glycosides. Therapy with vitamin D analogs should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to cardiac arrhythmias. Clinical monitoring of serum electrolyte concentrations and cardiac function is recommended.

Asthma

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Asthma.

There have been reports of bronchoconstriction in aspirin-sensitive patients receiving bisphosphonates. Use of these agents in asthmatic and in aspirin-sensitive patients should be used with caution.

Biliary Obstruction

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Biliary Obstruction.

Vitamin D analogs are fat soluble and oral formulations require bile for adequate intestinal absorption. Hepatic and/or biliary dysfunction decrease the absorption of vitamin D analogs. Metabolites of vitamin D analogs are primarily excreted in bile and feces. Ergocalciferol, cholecalciferol, and dihydrotachysterol undergo hepatic hydroxylation during metabolic activation. Hepatic impairment can alter the metabolic and therapeutic activity of certain vitamin D analogs. Alternative vitamin D analogs such as calcitriol (active form) may be considered in patients with compromised hepatic function.

Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders.

Each tablet of Binosto (alendronate effervescent) contains 650 mg sodium, equivalent to 1650 mg NaCl. Use caution in patients on sodium restriction, such as patients with a history of heart failure, hypertension, or other cardiovascular diseases.

Diarrhea

Major:

Protonix

The pantoprazole in Protonix has a major potential interaction with Diarrhea.

Published observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use may be associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), especially in hospitalized patients. This diagnosis should be considered for diarrhea that does not improve. It is recommended that patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated. Close monitoring is recommended in patients with diarrhea and in those taking antibacterial agents as CDAD has been reported with the use of nearly all these agents. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon, leading to overgrowth of C. difficile. C. difficile produces toxins A and B, which contribute to the development of CDAD. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

Dysphagia

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Dysphagia.

Bisphosphonates may cause local irritation of the upper gastrointestinal mucosa. Esophagitis and esophageal ulcers and erosions, occasionally with bleeding, as well as gastric and duodenal ulcers, have been reported, primarily with alendronate. Because of their structural similarities, therapy with all bisphosphonates should be administered cautiously in patients with active upper gastrointestinal disorders. The usual precautions should be followed closely to minimize the risk of irritation (i.e. taking the medication with a full glass of water after arising for the day and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards and until the first food intake of the day). Therapy should be discontinued if dysphagia, odynophagia or retrosternal pain occurs. The manufacturer of alendronate considers its use to be contraindicated in patients with abnormalities of the esophagus that may delay esophageal emptying, such as stricture or achalasia.

Esophageal Disease

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Esophageal Disease.

Bisphosphonates may cause local irritation of the upper gastrointestinal mucosa. Esophagitis and esophageal ulcers and erosions, occasionally with bleeding, as well as gastric and duodenal ulcers, have been reported, primarily with alendronate. Because of their structural similarities, therapy with all bisphosphonates should be administered cautiously in patients with active upper gastrointestinal disorders. The usual precautions should be followed closely to minimize the risk of irritation (i.e. taking the medication with a full glass of water after arising for the day and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards and until the first food intake of the day). Therapy should be discontinued if dysphagia, odynophagia or retrosternal pain occurs. The manufacturer of alendronate considers its use to be contraindicated in patients with abnormalities of the esophagus that may delay esophageal emptying, such as stricture or achalasia.

Gastritis/Duodenitis

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Gastritis/Duodenitis.

Bisphosphonates may cause local irritation of the upper gastrointestinal mucosa. Esophagitis and esophageal ulcers and erosions, occasionally with bleeding, as well as gastric and duodenal ulcers, have been reported, primarily with alendronate. Because of their structural similarities, therapy with all bisphosphonates should be administered cautiously in patients with active upper gastrointestinal disorders. The usual precautions should be followed closely to minimize the risk of irritation (i.e. taking the medication with a full glass of water after arising for the day and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards and until the first food intake of the day). Therapy should be discontinued if dysphagia, odynophagia or retrosternal pain occurs. The manufacturer of alendronate considers its use to be contraindicated in patients with abnormalities of the esophagus that may delay esophageal emptying, such as stricture or achalasia.

Gastrointestinal Obstruction

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Obstruction.

The manufacturer considers the use of alendronate sodium oral solution to be contraindicated in patients at increased risk of aspiration.

Heart Failure

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Each tablet of Binosto (alendronate effervescent) contains 650 mg sodium, equivalent to 1650 mg NaCl. Use caution in patients on sodium restriction, such as patients with a history of heart failure, hypertension, or other cardiovascular diseases.

Hypercalcemia

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Hypercalcemia.

Vitamin D analogs such as calciferol and ergocalciferol should not be given to patients with hypercalcemia, malabsorption syndrome, or evidence of vitamin D toxicity.

Hypocalcemia

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Hypocalcemia.

The use of bisphosphonates is contraindicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in patients with hypocalcemia. These agents increase bone mineral density, a process that requires an adequate supply of calcium in the body. Following the initiation of therapy, a short-term reduction in serum calcium and phosphate levels usually occurs due to inhibition of bone resorption, especially in patients with Paget's disease, in whom the pretreatment rate of bone turnover may be greatly elevated. Hypocalcemia and other disturbances of mineral metabolism, such as vitamin D deficiency, should be treated prior to initiation of therapy. Appropriate intake of calcium and vitamin D should be ensured throughout the course of treatment.

Indigestion

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Indigestion.

Bisphosphonates may cause local irritation of the upper gastrointestinal mucosa. Esophagitis and esophageal ulcers and erosions, occasionally with bleeding, as well as gastric and duodenal ulcers, have been reported, primarily with alendronate. Because of their structural similarities, therapy with all bisphosphonates should be administered cautiously in patients with active upper gastrointestinal disorders. The usual precautions should be followed closely to minimize the risk of irritation (i.e. taking the medication with a full glass of water after arising for the day and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards and until the first food intake of the day). Therapy should be discontinued if dysphagia, odynophagia or retrosternal pain occurs. The manufacturer of alendronate considers its use to be contraindicated in patients with abnormalities of the esophagus that may delay esophageal emptying, such as stricture or achalasia.

Infection

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Infection.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), which can occur spontaneously, is generally associated with tooth extraction and/or local infection with delayed healing, and has been reported in patients taking bisphosphonates. Known risk factors for osteonecrosis of the jaw include invasive dental procedures (e.g., tooth extraction, dental implants, boney surgery), diagnosis of cancer, concomitant therapies (e.g., chemotherapy, corticosteroids, angiogenesis inhibitors), poor oral hygiene, and co-morbid disorders (e.g., periodontal and/or other pre-existing dental disease, anemia, coagulopathy, infection, ill-fitting dentures). The manufacturers of bisphosphonates recommend discontinuation of bisphosphonate treatment for patients undergoing invasive dental procedures. Patients who develop osteonecrosis of the jaw while on bisphosphonate therapy should receive care by an oral surgeon. In these patients, extensive dental surgery to treat ONJ may exacerbate the condition. Discontinuation of bisphosphonate therapy should be considered based on individual benefit/risk assessment.

Liver Disease

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Vitamin D analogs are fat soluble and oral formulations require bile for adequate intestinal absorption. Hepatic and/or biliary dysfunction decrease the absorption of vitamin D analogs. Metabolites of vitamin D analogs are primarily excreted in bile and feces. Ergocalciferol, cholecalciferol, and dihydrotachysterol undergo hepatic hydroxylation during metabolic activation. Hepatic impairment can alter the metabolic and therapeutic activity of certain vitamin D analogs. Alternative vitamin D analogs such as calcitriol (active form) may be considered in patients with compromised hepatic function.

Moderate:

Protonix

The pantoprazole in Protonix has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Pantoprazole is primarily metabolized by the liver. In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, little drug accumulation has been observed following once-daily, multiple-dose administration. No dosage adjustments are necessary in these patients. However, data are limited concerning the pharmacokinetic disposition of pantoprazole in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Alternate-day dosing may be appropriate in some cases.

Magnesium Imbalance

Moderate:

Protonix

The pantoprazole in Protonix has a moderate potential interaction with Magnesium Imbalance.

Symptomatic and asymptomatic hypomagnesemia has been reported rarely in patients treated with PPIs for at least 3 months, in most cases after a year of therapy. Serious adverse events can include tetany, seizures, and arrhythmias. Caution should be used in patients prone to magnesium imbalances such as patients taking other medications that can cause hypomagnesemia (e.g., diuretics). Regular monitoring is recommended.

Malabsorption Syndrome

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Malabsorption Syndrome.

Vitamin D analogs such as calciferol and ergocalciferol should not be given to patients with hypercalcemia, malabsorption syndrome, or evidence of vitamin D toxicity.

Osteoporosis

Moderate:

Protonix

The pantoprazole in Protonix has a moderate potential interaction with Osteoporosis.

Various published observational studies have reported that PPI therapy may be associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis related fractures of the hip, wrist or spine. The risk was increased in patients who received high doses (multiple daily doses), and long term treatment (a year or longer). Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated. Caution should be used in patients at risk for osteoporosis related fractures and should be managed according to established treatment guidelines.

Peptic Ulcer

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

Bisphosphonates may cause local irritation of the upper gastrointestinal mucosa. Esophagitis and esophageal ulcers and erosions, occasionally with bleeding, as well as gastric and duodenal ulcers, have been reported, primarily with alendronate. Because of their structural similarities, therapy with all bisphosphonates should be administered cautiously in patients with active upper gastrointestinal disorders. The usual precautions should be followed closely to minimize the risk of irritation (i.e. taking the medication with a full glass of water after arising for the day and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards and until the first food intake of the day). Therapy should be discontinued if dysphagia, odynophagia or retrosternal pain occurs. The manufacturer of alendronate considers its use to be contraindicated in patients with abnormalities of the esophagus that may delay esophageal emptying, such as stricture or achalasia.

Phosphate Imbalance

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Phosphate Imbalance.

Vitamin D analogs administered in the presence of hyperphosphatemia can result in precipitation of calcium-phosphate deposits within the vascular or renal systems or other soft tissue calcifications. A solubility product (Serum Calcium X Phosphate) should not exceed 70. Serum electrolyte concentrations should be corrected prior to vitamin D analog therapy and monitored during therapy.

Pseudomembranous Colitis

Major:

Protonix

The pantoprazole in Protonix has a major potential interaction with Pseudomembranous Colitis.

Published observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use may be associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), especially in hospitalized patients. This diagnosis should be considered for diarrhea that does not improve. It is recommended that patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated. Close monitoring is recommended in patients with diarrhea and in those taking antibacterial agents as CDAD has been reported with the use of nearly all these agents. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon, leading to overgrowth of C. difficile. C. difficile produces toxins A and B, which contribute to the development of CDAD. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

Renal Dysfunction

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Alendronate is primarily eliminated by the kidney. In healthy controls, drug that is not deposited in bone is rapidly excreted in the urine. Although clinical information is not available, animal studies suggest reduced drug clearance in renal failure. Alendronate is not recommended for use in patients with creatinine clearance less than 35 mL/min due to a lack of clinical experience in this setting. No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (CrCl >= 35 mL/min).

Moderate:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The cholecalciferol in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol undergo renal biotransformation during metabolic activation. Renal impairment can alter metabolic and therapeutic activity of certain vitamin D analogs. Alternative vitamin D analogs such as dihydrotachysterol (hepatic activation) and calcitriol (active form) may be considered in patients with compromised renal function.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Major:

alendronate / cholecalciferol

The alendronate in alendronate / cholecalciferol has a major potential interaction with Vitamin D Deficiency.

The use of bisphosphonates is contraindicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in patients with hypocalcemia. These agents increase bone mineral density, a process that requires an adequate supply of calcium in the body. Following the initiation of therapy, a short-term reduction in serum calcium and phosphate levels usually occurs due to inhibition of bone resorption, especially in patients with Paget's disease, in whom the pretreatment rate of bone turnover may be greatly elevated. Hypocalcemia and other disturbances of mineral metabolism, such as vitamin D deficiency, should be treated prior to initiation of therapy. Appropriate intake of calcium and vitamin D should be ensured throughout the course of treatment.

More resources

alendronate / cholecalciferol

A total of 210 drugs are known to interact with alendronate / cholecalciferol.

Protonix

A total of 205 drugs are known to interact with Protonix.

Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

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