Alendronate

Generic Name : Alendronate

Pronunciation : a-LEN-droe-nate

Trade Name(s): 
India- Ados Tab, Alenost Tab, Bifosa Tab, Denfos Tab, Dronal Tab, Osteofos Tab, Poronil Tab, Ralenost-10 Tab, Restofos Tab, Zophost Tab.
International- Fosamax.

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is a bisphosphonate, primarily used for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in men and postmenopausal women. It is also used for Paget's disease and osteoporosis caused by steroid treatment. It reduces the amount of calcium released from the bones into the blood.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 

Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity, decreased level of calcium in blood, esophageal abnormalities and factors which delay esophageal emptying, severe kidney impairment, inability to stand or sit upright for more than half an hour, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X

Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

When it is to be taken : 
PO: The recommended dose is 5 to 10mg once daily or 35 to 70mg tablet once weekly.

How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet, should be taken on an empty stomach.

Special Instruction : 
*Caution needed in patients with history of upper gastrointestinal disorders (discontinue if symptoms worsen); ulcers and active gastrointestinal bleeding.
*Correct vitamin D and calcium deficiency before starting therapy.
*Not recommended for use in patients with CrCl *Proper dental care is important while taking this medication.
*Do not drive a car or operate machinery, avoid alcohol and smoking while taking this medication.

Side Effects : 
Postmenopausal women
Gastrointestinal-

Abdominal pain, nausea, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, acid regurgitation esophageal ulcer, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and stomach inflammation.
Musculoskeletal -

Bone, muscle/joint pain, muscle cramp and osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Central Nervous System -

Headache and dizziness.
ENT-

Taste perversion.
Men
Gastrointestinal -

Acid regurgitation, flatulence, heart burn, diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea.
Body as a Whole -

Hypersensitivity reactions, muscle pain, uneasiness, weakness and rarely fever.
Central Nervous system-

Dizziness and fainting.
Skin-

Rash (occasionally with photosensitivity), itching, hair loss, rarely severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Eye-

Eye inflammation.

Other Precautions : 
*It may cause severe bone, muscle, or joint pain.

Storage Conditions : 
Store it at room temperature and in an airtight container. Keep away from children and pets.