Fosamax is the brand name of a drug used to treat osteoporosis, which is a disease that thins the bones. The generic name of the drug is alendronate sodium. Those taking Fosamax can slow the effects of osteoporosis and actually increase their bone mass, according to information from the drug's manufacturer, Merck & Co., Inc.
Uses
Fosamax, and its cousin Fosamax Plus D, are used to treat osteoporosis after menopause. The main difference between the two is that Fosamax Plus D includes vitamin D, a vitamin critical to bone health. A physician determines the most appropriate treatment, and often a blood test is ordered to determine whether the patient is lacking vitamin D.
Possible side effects include heartburn, difficulty swallowing or chest pain, according to Merck & Co., Inc. These side effects should be reported to the physician, as they can be signs of serious digestive problems.
Availability
Fosamax is available as a pill or oral solution, according to information from the Food and Drug Administration. The pill is available in 5 mg, 10 mg, 35 mg, 40 mg and 70 mg dosages. It is a prescription-only drug, and a physician will decide which dose is prescribed.
Both Fosamax and Fosamax Plus D are taken weekly. There are several generic versions available of Fosamax, but there are none available for Fosamax Plus D.
Manufacturer
Fosamax and Fosamax Plus D are manufactured by Merck & Co., Inc. The generic drug alendronate sodium is manufactured by several companies, including Apotex, Sandoz and Mylan, Inc.
Osteoporosis
Affecting about 44 million Americans, osteoporosis is a disease that deteriorates bone tissues and causes soft or porous bones. These bones break more easily, especially in the hips, spine and wrist. Some bones are so weak that they can be broken with a sneeze.
Considerations
People who cannot stand or sit for 30 minutes should not take Fosamax, according to information from its manufacturer. Also, those who have trouble swallowing, stomach trouble or other digestive problems should talk to their doctors before taking Fosamax. Some conditions, like leukemia and sarcoidosis, can increase vitamin D in the body, so be sure to consult your doctor.
Too much vitamin D can cause changes in heart rhythm and mental confusion, according to information from the National Institutes for Health. Children should not take Fosamax, according to information from the FDA. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult their doctors before taking Fosamax.
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