FOSAMAX 70MG TABLETS 4`S

What is this medicine for?

FOSAMAX helps protect your bones from breaking. Osteoporosis makes bones thinner and more fragile — increasing the risk of fractures, particularly of the spine, hip, and wrist. FOSAMAX works by slowing down the natural process of bone removal, which helps preserve bone density and significantly reduces fracture risk.

It is used to lower fracture risk due to osteoporosis and also during prostate cancer management to remedy the bone loss associated with androgen deprivation therapy.

It is taken once a week — a single tablet every week on the same day.

How do I take it — step by step?

•       Choose one day of the week (e.g. every Monday) — take it on the same day every week

•       Take it FIRST THING IN THE MORNING, before any food, drink, or other medicines

•       Take with a FULL GLASS of plain water only (at least 200 mL) — NOT juice, tea, coffee, or mineral water

•       Swallow the tablet whole — do NOT crush, chew, or let it dissolve

•       STAY UPRIGHT (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet — do not lie down

•       Do not eat, drink (except plain water), or take other medicines for at least 30 minutes after

•       Take your calcium and Vitamin D supplements at a different time of day — NOT at the same time as FOSAMAX

Why are these instructions so important?

Alendronate tablets can irritate and ulcerate the oesophagus if they do not pass quickly to the stomach. Staying upright and taking with a full glass of water ensures the tablet moves rapidly through the oesophagus. If you experience any pain on swallowing, new heartburn, or chest pain after taking FOSAMAX, stop and contact your doctor.

What side effects might I notice?

Gastrointestinal (most common):

•       Heartburn, abdominal discomfort, or nausea — usually related to not following administration instructions

•       Difficulty swallowing — stop immediately and contact your doctor

Bone and muscle:

•       Bone, joint, or muscle pain — can sometimes be severe; usually resolves after stopping

Rare but serious:

•       Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) — rare at standard doses; a section of jawbone may be exposed, particularly after dental extractions. Tell your dentist you take this medicine.

•       Atypical femoral fractures — rare stress fractures of the thigh bone with very long-term use (5+ years); report any new thigh or groin pain

Important reminders

•       Tell your dentist before ANY dental procedures that you take FOSAMAX

•       After 5 years of treatment, your doctor will review whether to continue, take a break, or switch treatment

•       Always take your calcium and Vitamin D supplements — these support the medicine's effect on your bones

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Why must I stay upright for 30 minutes?

Alendronate tablets can irritate and ulcerate the oesophagus if they sit there too long. Staying upright and taking a full glass of water ensures the tablet passes rapidly to your stomach. Lying down allows the tablet to sit in the oesophagus, potentially causing serious ulceration.

❓ Can I take FOSAMAX with my other morning medicines?

No — FOSAMAX must be taken first, with only plain water, before any other medicines, food, or drink. Other medicines (including calcium, vitamins, and antacids) must be taken at least 30 minutes later. They reduce FOSAMAX absorption significantly if taken at the same time.

❓ How long do I need to take FOSAMAX?

Osteoporosis is a long-term condition. Most guidelines recommend reviewing treatment after 5 years. At that point your doctor will assess whether to continue, take a 'drug holiday', or switch treatment based on your fracture risk and bone density. Never stop without discussing with your doctor — stopping abruptly allows bone loss to resume.