Alendronate

Other Names: Fosamax

Commonly Prescribed For: Alendronate is normally prescribed for treating and preventing osteoporosis in women. It is also used for treating osteoporosis both in men and women, when they take corticosteroids. This medication can also be used for treating Paget’s disease.

How to Take it: Alendronate is available in the form of a tablet, as a solution to be taken via mouth. The solution is generally taken once every week in the morning preferably on an empty stomach. Do not crush or chew the tablets, instead swallow the tablet entirely. Take Alendronate as prescribed.

How it Works: Alendronate belongs to a group of drugs known as bisphosphonates. It prevents the bone breakdown and hence increases the intensity of bones.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include stomach pain, swelling of the joints, constipation, dizziness, diarrhea, headache, fullness in the stomach and unusual taste. Some serious side effects include worsening heartburn, eye pain, difficulty swallowing, numbness, pain on swallowing, loosening of the teeth, chest pain, painful or swollen gums, bloody vomit, hoarseness, tarry tools, difficulty breathing, fever, inflammation of the eyes or throat, hives, rash and blisters.