About alendronate sodium
Bisphosphonate bone-strengthening medicine
Used for
- Treats osteoporosis after menopause and in men
- Treats osteoporosis caused by long-term steroid use
- Helps prevent fractures by reducing bone breakdown
Usual adult dose
Osteoporosis: 70 mg by mouth once weekly, taken with plain water before food.
Common side effects
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Muscle, joint, or bone pain
- Rarely, jawbone problems or unusual thigh fractures
Important warnings
- Take on rising, with a full glass of plain water; remain upright for at least 30 minutes.
- Do not take with food, other drinks, or medicines during the first 30 minutes.
- Avoid with swallowing problems, low blood calcium, or inability to sit or stand upright.
- Seek medical review for painful swallowing, jaw symptoms, or new thigh or groin pain.
Pregnancy
Usually avoided; safety is not established, and treatment requires specialist assessment.
Breastfeeding
Use is generally not recommended because safety information is limited.
Interactions
- Calcium, antacids, and mineral supplements reduce absorption; separate by at least 30 minutes.
- Food, coffee, tea, and juice reduce absorption; use plain water only.
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen may increase stomach irritation.
- Other bisphosphonates are not usually combined.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.