How to Take Alendronate Sodium Medicine

Alendronate sodium (commonly known by the brand name Flosomax) is used in the treatment of postmenopausal onset osteoporosis, but can also be used to treat bone loss in relation to Paget's disease or other conditions. The first non-hormonal medication available to treat osteoporosis in post-menopausal women, alendronate sodium works by inhibiting the cells responsible for bone loss and promotes the building of healthy bone. And although there can be side effects with alendronate sodium, the medication must be taken as directed to be effective.

Things You'll Need

• Alendronate sodium
• Water
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements

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Instructions

• 1

  Do not eat or take any other medication before taking alendronate sodium medicine. Take your daily or weekly prescribed tablet or oral solution dosage of alendronate sodium first thing in the morning. Weekly doses should be taken on the same day every week.

• 2

  Follow the dose with a full 8-ounce glass of water.

• 3

  Wait at least 30 minutes before drinking, eating or taking any other medications. However, the longer you wait before eating or drinking, the more effective your dose will be.

• 4

  Add calcium and vitamin D supplements to your diet to enhance the effectiveness of the alendronate sodium medication.

• 5

  Be prepared for and aware of mild side effects including abdominal and musculoskeletal pain, nausea, heartburn and irritation or pain of the esophagus.