Alendronate 70mg

Alendronate 70mg — Uses and Benefits

Alendronate 70mg is prescribed for people with weak or thinning bones, most often postmenopausal women, to reduce the risk of fractures of the spine, hip and other bones.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
• Treatment of osteoporosis in men
• Prevention of bone loss in people at risk of osteoporosis
• Management of steroid-induced osteoporosis in some patients, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to a class of medicines called bisphosphonates
• It slows down the cells (osteoclasts) that break down bone
• This helps increase bone density over time and lowers fracture risk

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not relieve sudden bone or joint pain
• It is not used for treating calcium deficiency alone
• It is not a substitute for calcium and vitamin D supplements, which are usually needed alongside it
• It is not meant for immediate relief of fracture symptoms

How to Use Alendronate 70mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a week on the same day
• Swallow the tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before your first food, drink or other medicine of the day
• Take it with a full glass of plain water only, not with mineral water, juice, tea or coffee
• Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it; stay upright (sitting or standing)
• Do not chew or suck the tablet

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• If you miss your weekly dose, take it the next morning after you remember
• Do not take two doses on the same day or close together
• Then go back to your normal weekly schedule
• If unsure, check with your doctor or pharmacist

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Alendronate 70mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Stomach upset or discomfort
• Acidity or heartburn
• Nausea
• Bloating or gas
• Mild joint or muscle pain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Difficulty or pain while swallowing, new or worsening heartburn, chest pain
• Severe or persistent stomach pain
• Jaw pain, swelling or numbness (rare sign of jaw bone problems)
• New pain in the thigh or groin (rare unusual thigh bone fracture)
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe muscle, joint or bone pain

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Alendronate 70mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to alendronate or any bisphosphonate
• Have certain problems of the food pipe (oesophagus) such as narrowing or difficulty swallowing
• Cannot stay upright (sit or stand) for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet
• Have very low calcium levels in the blood that are not yet treated

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease
• Have any stomach or digestive problems, including ulcers
• Are planning dental surgery or tooth extraction
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have low vitamin D or calcium levels

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Calcium supplements, antacids, and iron or mineral supplements (these reduce absorption if taken too close together)
• Aspirin and other NSAID pain relievers (increased risk of stomach irritation)
• Other bisphosphonates
• Steroid medicines used long term

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this tablet at night?

No, it should be taken only in the morning on an empty stomach, followed by staying upright, so night-time dosing is not recommended.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Treatment duration varies for each person and is usually decided by the doctor based on bone density and response, often several years.

Can I take calcium tablets along with this medicine?

• Yes, but not at the same time; leave a gap of at least 30 minutes or as advised by your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.