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Flosomax Patient Information

Flosomax is a common misspelling of Fosamax. Fosamax is the brand name for alendronate sodium, a medication doctors commonly prescribe for the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis. It is administered as an oral solution or in tablet form.

  1. Function

    • Fosamax functions by preventing bone resorption or the natural breakdown of your bones that occurs at an accelerated rate in patients with osteoporosis.

    Use

    • Doctors use Fosamax to treat and prevent age-related osteoporosis in men and post-menopausal women as well as osteoporosis caused by the prolonged use of glucocorticoid drugs. Additionally, doctors prescribe Fosamax for Paget's disease, a condition that causes the abnormal destruction and regrowth of your bones.

    Time Frame

    • RxList advises that Fosamax should be taken when you get out of the bed in the morning, approximately 30 minutes before you eat any food to increase its effectiveness. Additionally, it is important that you drink at least 2 ounces of water after taking Fosamax to protect your digestive system.

    Risks

    • Side effects of Fosamax are possible, including constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, headaches and nausea. According to RxList, risks associated with the use of Fosamax include esophageal irritation and swelling, the formation of gastrointestinal ulcers and a loss of blood supply to the jaw that can result in bone death and loose teeth.

    Considerations

    • Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, doctors rarely prescribe Fosamax for pregnant women. If you have a history of anemia, blood clotting problems, cancer, dental problems or poor oral hygiene, digestive or intestinal problems, vitamin D deficiency, kidney problems or dysfunction, low blood calcium or difficulty swallowing, it may not be safe for you to take Fosamax, warns the Mayo Clinic.

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