What is Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Alendronate is in the group of medicines called bisphosphonates (bis FOS fo nayts). It alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body. Alendronate slows bone loss while increasing bone mass, which may prevent bone fractures.
Cholecalciferol is a form of vitamin D, and is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Do not take an alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet if you cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes. This medicine 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 the medicine.
Take the alendronate and cholecalciferol 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 alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet.
For at least the first 30 minutes after taking this medicine, 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.
Some people using medicines similar to alendronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums. You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and a pre-existing dental problem.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet,
medication, and exercise routines very closely.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

low blood calcium (hypocalcemia)
a cancer such as sarcoidosis, leukemia, lymphoma
a vitamin D deficiency
kidney disease; or
an ulcer in your stomach or esophagus

Some people using medicines similar to alendronate have developed bone loss in the jaw, also called osteonecrosis of the jaw. Symptoms of this condition may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after injury or surgery involving the gums.
You may be more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw if you have cancer or have been treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or steroids. Other conditions associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw include blood clotting disorders, anemia (low red blood cells), and dental surgery or pre-existing dental problems.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether alendronate and cholecalciferol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether alendronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Fosamax Plus D Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using alendronate and cholecalciferol and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

chest pain
difficulty or pain when swallowing
pain or burning under the ribs or in the back
new or worsening heartburn
severe joint, bone, or muscle pain
new or unusual pain in your thigh or hip; or
jaw pain, numbness, or swelling

Less serious side effects may include:

mild heartburn, nausea, or stomach upset
diarrhea, gas, or constipation
mild joint or back pain; or
headache

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Fosamax Plus D Interactions

What other drugs affect Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Antacids, supplements, or medicines that contain aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or other minerals can interfere with how your body absorbs alendronate and cholecalciferol. If you use these other medicines, do not that take them for at least 30 minutes after taking an alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet.
Before using alendronate and cholecalciferol, tell your doctor if you also use aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as celecoxib (Celebrex), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), etodolac (Lodine), indomethacin (Indocin), meloxicam (Mobic), nabumetone (Relafen), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), piroxicam (Feldene), and others.
This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with alendronate and cholecalciferol. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate and cholecalciferol.
Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after you take this medicine.

Fosamax Plus D Dosage

How should I take Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol tablets are taken once each week. Choose the day of the week that best fits your schedule. Every week, take one alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet on your chosen day.
Take the alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine.
Take the tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking this medicine.
Do not crush, chew, or suck the tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
After taking an alendronate and cholecalciferol tablet, carefully follow these instructions:

Do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate and cholecalciferol
Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water
Do not take any other medicines including vitamins, calcium, or antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate and cholecalciferol. It may be best to take your other medicines at a different time of the day. Talk with your doctor about the best dosing schedule for your other medicines

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your bone mineral density will need to be tested on a regular basis. Visit your doctor regularly.
Alendronate and cholecalciferol is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet changes, exercise, and taking calcium and vitamin supplements. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I overdose on Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Drink a full glass of milk and call your local poison control center or emergency room right away. Do not make yourself vomit and do not lie down.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, muscle cramps, numbness or tingling, tight muscles in your face, seizure (convulsions), irritability, and unusual thoughts or behavior.

What happens if I miss a dose of Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)?

If you forget to take alendronate and cholecalciferol on your scheduled day, take it first thing in the morning on the day after you remember the missed dose. Then return to your regular weekly schedule on your chosen dose day. Do not take two (2) tablets in one day.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com

Alendronate Cholecalciferol Fosamax Plus D

Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Cholecalciferol)