What is Fosamax Plus D?
Fosamax Plus D is a combination of alendronate and cholecalciferol. Alendronate, a bisphosphonate medicine, alters the formation and breakdown of bones in the body. This may slow down bone loss and help prevent fractures. Cholecalciferol, a vitamin D form, is essential for calcium absorption from the stomach as well as for calcium's proper functioning in the body. Fosamax Plus D can be used to treat or prevent osteoporosis. Fosamax Plus D can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Warnings
Fosamax Plus D should not be taken if you are suffering from low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia) or have a problem moving your muscles in your esophagus. Fosamax Plus D tablets should not be taken if you are unable to stand or sit up for 30 minutes. Alendronate may cause serious problems with the stomach or esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to the stomach). After taking Fosamax Plus D, you will need to remain upright for 30 minutes.
Before you take this drug
Fosamax Plus D should not be taken if you are suffering from low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia) or have a problem moving your muscles in the esophagus. Fosamax Plus D tablets should not be taken if you are unable to stand or sit up for 30 minutes. Alendronate may cause serious problems with the stomach or esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to the stomach). After taking Fosamax Plus D, you will need to remain upright for 30 minutes.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Fosamax Plus D will be safe for you:
- Low blood calcium (hypocalcemia)
- Cancers such as leukemia, sarcoidosis, and lymphoma.
- A vitamin D deficiency;
- Kidney disease
- An ulcer in the stomach or esophagus
This medicine can cause jaw bone loss in rare cases (osteonecrosis). The symptoms include numbness or pain in the jaw, red or swelling gums, loose or missing teeth, and slow healing following dental work. This condition is more likely to occur if you continue using Fosamax Plus D. If you are a cancer patient or have received radiation, chemotherapy, or steroids, it is more likely that you will develop osteonecrosis. Blood clotting disorders (low red cells), anemia (low blood count), and pre-existing dental problems are also risk factors. Speak to your doctor about any risks or benefits associated with using this medication. Fosamax Plus D is not known to harm an unborn child. If you plan to get pregnant or are already pregnant, tell your doctor. Alendronate and cholecalciferol may pass into breast milk, but it is unknown if they could harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding a child.
How to take Fosamax Plus D?
Follow the directions on your prescription label to take Fosamax Plus. Please follow all the instructions on the prescription label. Take this medication only as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or take it for a longer period of time. Fosamax Plus D is taken as one tablet per week. You can choose the best day for you. Take one Fosamax Plus D tablet every week on the day you choose. Take Fosamax Plus D first thing in the morning. At least 30 minutes prior to eating or drinking anything or taking any other medication Take the tablet along with 6 to 8 ounces of water. When taking this medication, use only plain water and not mineral water. The tablet should not be crushed, sucked, or chewed. Swallow the entire pill.
Follow these instructions after taking a Fosamax Plus D tablet:
- Fosamax Plus D should not be taken within 30 minutes of lying down or reclining.
- You should only drink plain water.
- Take your other medications at a later time. Speak to your doctor about how best to dose your other medications.
You will need to test your bone density regularly in order to know if this medication is working. If you have osteoporosis, it is possible that you will not need to use Fosamax Plus D for longer than three to five years. Tell your dentist if you plan to undergo any dental procedures (especially surgery). You may have to temporarily stop taking the medication. Fosamax Plus D is part of an overall treatment plan that could also include dietary changes, exercise, and calcium and vitamin supplements. Be sure to follow your diet, medications, and exercise regimens closely. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Take it the next morning if you forget. Return to your normal weekly schedule and choose your dose day. Take no more than two (2) tablets per day.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. Call your local poison center or emergency room immediately after drinking a glass of milk. Do not vomit or lie down. Overdose symptoms include muscle cramps or numbness, tight muscles, convulsions (convulsions), irritability, and strange thoughts or behaviors.
What should be avoided?
After taking Fosamax Plus D, do not take any other medicine, including calcium, vitamins, or antacids, for at least 30 minutes.
Side effects of Fosamax Plus D
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, or throat, or hives, get emergency medical attention.
Fosamax Plus D should be stopped immediately, and you should consult your doctor if:
- Heartburn that is new or worsening;
- Having difficulty swallowing can be painful.
- Pain or burning in the back or under the ribs;
- Heartburn that is new or worsening
- Pain in the joints, muscles, or bones;
- A new or unusual pain in the thigh or your hip
- Jaw pain, numbness, or swelling.
Fosamax Plus D may cause the following side effects:
- Mild heartburn and stomach upset
- Diarrhea, gas, constipation;
- Mild joint or back pain
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding any side effects, always contact your physician. Alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report potential problems.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or if you will stop using them during treatment with Fosamax Plus D.
- Aspirin and other NSAIDs are available in the form of ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib (Aleve), diclofenac (Indomethacin), meloxicam, and others.
This list is incomplete. Alendronate, cholecalciferol, and other drugs can interact, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and vitamin products. This medication guide does not list all possible drug interactions.
