How to Use Fosamax
February 25th, 2010
Women in their postmenopausal period are usually on the verge of undergoing osteoporosis. Although osteoporosis is not always felt, after some bone mass tests and xrays, plus if the height has become decreased and there is gradual stooping, a diagnosis will then be confirmed by the physician. With Fosamax, an anti-osteoporosis drug, the risk of acquiring bone fractures secondary to osteoporosis, will be diminished and prevented.
Fosamax is a drug made by Merck. Its generic name is alendronate sodium, a bisphosphate, which is used to treat osteoporosis due to menopause or corticosteroid-induced. It has also been known to be used for other bone problems. Fosamax is being marketed in both tablet and oral solution form and it is also available as Fosamax+D in which vitamin D has been incorporated. Available Fosamax tablets come in dosages of 5mg, 10mg, 35mg, 40mg and 70mg while the oral solution form has a dosage of 70mg/75ml.
Fosamax is easy to use. It is to be taken in once every week in the morning upon waking up with at least 2 ounces (about 60ml) of plain water. Then wait for about 30 to 45 minutes, in an upright position (either you stand, sit or walk) for the drug to settle in before taking in food so as not to decrease the bioavailability of the drug in the body. One should keep in mind not to take in coffee or orange juice with Fosamax as the absorption in the body will be decreased. Studies have shown that this decrease is about 60% which will lessen the effectivity of the drug. For corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis, calcium and vitamin D supplements could be taken in after one hour of administering Fosamax. Excess Fosamax do not usually stay in the body too long among healthy clients as it is excreted in the urine. However, if one has a major renal problem, then she should talk about it with her doctor first before taking Fosamax.
This drug is not to be taken while lying down, at bedtime or before getting up in the morning as alendronate sodium has been correlated with some esophageal problems. Keep in mind to check the label or the leaflet that comes with the drug. If there are questions regarding Fosamax, it is also best to inquire with your physician or pharmacist about it. Remember to take Fosamax once a week only. It would be best also if you mark your calendars or keep an alarm system to remind you about it.
It should be noted also that with long-term use of Fosamax, the risk of developing esophageal and jaw problems are also increased. One should discuss with their physicians the relative risks and benefits with the use of this drug. A regular comprehensive check-up with a health care provider is a must every four to six months to determine any development of side effects from taking the drug.