FOSAMAX (alendronate sodium) is a bisphosphonate that acts as a specific inhibitor of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Bisphosphonates are synthetic analogs of pyrophosphate that bind to the hydroxyapatite found in bone.
Alendronate sodium is chemically described as (4-amino-1-hydroxybutylidene) bisphosphonic acid monosodium salt trihydrate.Do not take an Fosamax tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. Fosamax can cause serious problems in the stomach or esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach). You will need to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication.
Take the Fosamax tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine.Take each dose with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking an Fosamax tablet.
For at least the first 30 minutes after taking an Fosamax tablet, do not lie down or recline; do not eat or drink anything other than plain water; and do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids.
Fosamax is the brand name for the drug Alendronate. It belongs to a class of drugs know as bisphosphonates and is approved by the FDA for the treatment of Osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones. Bisphosphonate drugs have been used since 1995 to strengthen bone in women who are losing bone density. The have also been used for nearly 15 years in men and women who have cancer. Other bisphosphonates include Actonel, Boniva, Bonefos, Didronel, Aredia, Skelid and Zometa.