Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Sodium & Cholecalciferol) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Menopause is defined as the state of an absence of menstrual periods for 12 months. The menopausal transition starts with varying menstrual cycle length and ends with the final menstrual period. Perimenopause means "the time around menopause" and is often used to refer to the menopausal transitional period. It is not officially a medical term, but is sometimes used to explain certain aspects of the menopause transition in lay terms. Postmenopause is the entire period of time that comes after the last menstrual period.

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when the function of the ovaries ceases. The ovary (female gonad), is one of a pair of reproductive glands in women. They are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs (ova) and female hormones such as estrogen. During each monthly menstrual cycle, an egg is released f...

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Fosamax Plus D Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alendronate and cholecalciferol (Fosamax Plus D)?

Do not take an alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. This medicine can cause serious problems 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 the medicine.

Before using alendronate and cholecalciferol, tell your doctor if you have:

low blood calcium (hypocalcemia);
a cancer such as sarcoidosis, leukemia, lymphoma;
a vitamin D deficiency;
kidney disease; or
an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take alendronate and cholecalciferol.

Some people using medicines similar to alendronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums.

You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and dental surgery or pre-existing dental problems.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether alendronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take alendronate and cholecalciferol (Fosamax Plus D)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Alendronate and cholecalciferol tablets are taken once each week. Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule. Every week, take one alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet on your chosen day.

Take the alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine.

Take the tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking this medicine.

Do not crush, chew, or suck the tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

After taking an alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet, carefully follow these instructions:

Do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate and cholecalciferol.
Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water.
Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate and cholecalciferol. It may be best to take your other medicines at a different time of the day. Talk with your doctor about the best dosing schedule for your other medicines.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Alendronate and cholecalciferol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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