Alendronic Acid
Information about Alendronic Acid
Alendronic acid uses
Alendronic Acid is used in the treatment of osteoporosis. It treats osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high risk of fractures.
How alendronic acid works
Alendronic Acid is a bisphosphonate. It works by suppressing the activity of osteoclasts, cells that cause destruction of bone. This strengthens the bones and minimizes the risk of fractures.
Common side effects of alendronic acid
Headache, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, Diarrhea, Rash, Esophageal erosion, Gastro-esophageal reflux disease, Abdominal distension, Nausea, Abdominal pain, Difficulty in swallowing, Esophageal ulcer, Erythema (skin redness), Stomach inflammation, Flatulence, Constipation, Dyspepsia, Acid regurgitation, Muscle cramp, Dizziness, Taste change, Hair loss, Itching, Joint swelling, Weakness, Peripheral edema, Vomiting, Dark colored stool, Eye inflammation, Esophageal stricture, Red spots or bumps, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Symptomatic hypocalcemia, Osteonecrosis of the external auditory canal, Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Available Medicine for Alendronic Acid
Expert advice for Alendronic Acid
- Your doctor has prescribed Alendronic Acid to make your bones stronger and lower the risk of fractures.
- Take it in the morning at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything.
- Maintain an upright posture for 30 minutes after taking the medication so the medicine does not irritate your food pipe.
- It may cause the amount of calcium in your blood to fall. Take calcium-rich food in your diet and have regular blood tests to monitor the level of calcium in your blood.
- It is important to look after your mouth and teeth while you are taking this medicine. Have regular dental check-ups and inform your dentist about taking Alendronic Acid.
Frequently asked questions for Alendronic Acid
Alendronic Acid
Q. How to take Alendronic Acid?
It should be taken in the morning after getting up on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Do not lie down and stay fully upright for at least 30 minutes after swallowing the medicine. Avoid taking any food or medication for the next 30 mins after taking this medicine. Take this medicine only after consulting the doctor and follow the instructions advised.
Q. Why can you not lie down after taking Alendronic Acid?
No, one should not lie down after taking Alendronic Acid. This is because there is a possibility that the medication might come back up into the esophagus (food pipe) and even damage the esophagus. Staying upright will help the medicine to settle down quickly in your stomach and prevent side effects like heartburn and pain.
Q. Does Alendronic Acid cause hair loss?
Yes, Alendronic Acid can cause hair loss, but this is not a common side effect. If you experience hair loss while taking this medication immediately report to your doctor and follow the advice given.