Products
Alendronate is commercially available in the form of weekly tablets (Fosamax, generic). It is also combined fixed with vitamin D (cholecalciferol) (Fosavance, generic) and has been approved in many countries since 1996.
Structure and properties
Sodium alendronate (C4H12NNaO7P2 – 3H2O, Mr = 325.1 g/mol) exists as a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is the sodium salt and trihydrate of alendronic acid (Acidum alendronicum) and belongs to the aminobisphosphonates.
Effects
Alendronate (ATC M05BA04) inhibits bone resorption and results in an increase in bone mass. The effects are due to inhibition of osteoclasts. Alendronate has a very long half-life of up to 10 years due to its incorporation into bone.
Indications
- For the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and in men.
- For the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis caused by glucocorticoids in men and women.
Dosage
According to the professional information. Weekly tablets are taken once a week. The instructions for taking should be followed carefully, otherwise the absorption into the body, which is already so very low (< 1%), will be further reduced and side effects may occur:
- Swallow with a full glass of water after getting up.
- Do not chew the tablet and do not let it dissolve in the mouth.
- To lie down again at the earliest after 30 minutes and after the first intake of food.
- Do not take before bedtime or before getting up.
Contraindications
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Calcium and foods high in calcium, antacids, magnesium, and other drugs reduce absorption and should not be taken at the same time. Other interactions have been noted with ranitidine and NSAIDs.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include:
- Digestive disturbances such as abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation, diarrhea, leakage of intestinal gas, esophageal ulcer, dysphagia, bloating, and reflux
- Headache
- Bone, muscle and joint pain
