Brand names: Fosamax, Fosavance, Binosto
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Alendronic acid is a type of medicine that belongs to a group called bisphosphonates. Doctors prescribe bisphosphonates to help keep your bones as strong as possible. If you have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing it taking alendronic acid can be beneficial. Osteoporosis is a condition where your bones become weaker and are more likely to break.
Osteoporosis can occur for various reasons but you have a higher risk of getting it if:
You are a woman who has gone through menopause.
You take steroids like prednisolone every day for an extended period (3 months or longer).
You have experienced certain cancer treatments, which can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. Your oncologist will discuss this with you.
Key Facts About Alendronic Acid:
1. Alendronic acid is good for your bones. It makes them stronger and less likely to break.
2. You usually take it once a week, either as a tablet or liquid.
3. Take Alendronic acid in the morning before eating or drinking anything and before taking any other medicines. After taking it stay sitting or standing for 30 minutes. This helps prevent irritation of your food pipe (oesophagus).
4. While taking Alendronic acid, it is important to take good care of your teeth and have regular dental check-ups. Although it is rare, Alendronic acid can sometimes harm the jaw bone.
5. Alendronic acid is sometimes called Fosavance when it is mixed with cholecalciferol which is a type of vitamin D3.
Dosage and strength:
For adults, alendronic acid comes in two different forms: a 70mg tablet to be taken once a week or a 10mg tablet to be taken daily.
When you take alendronic acid once a week, you have a few options:
1. You can take it as a regular tablet.
2. You can use a liquid form that you drink.
3. You can choose a tablet that dissolves in water, which is called a dispersible tablet.
Whether you decide to take alendronic acid daily or weekly, it is important to take it at the same time every day or on the same day of the week. If you opt for the weekly dosage, select a day that fits into your regular routine. This consistency is essential for the medicine to work effectively.
Alendronic Acid Side Effects:
Alendronic acid, like any medicine, can cause side effects in some people but not everyone will experience them. Some common side effects which affect more than 1 in 100 people include:
Constipation (difficulty passing stool)
Diarrhea (frequent, loose bowel movements)
Feeling dizzy (or experiencing vertigo, a spinning sensation)
Headaches, muscle, or joint pain
Swelling in the joints, hands, or legs
Indigestion, bloating, or excess gas
Itching or a mild rash on the skin
Feeling sleepy or tired
Hair loss
If you experience any of these side effects. it is a good idea to talk to your doctor or pharmacist for guidance and advice.
why is alendronic acid taken once a week?
Once-weekly alendronate (70 mg) is an effective treatment for osteoporosis. It increases bone density reduces bone turnover and lowers the risk of fractures. Studies have shown that the once-weekly dosage is as effective as taking it daily. This weekly dosing works well because it inhibits the slow bone resorption process by osteoclasts, which takes 2-3 weeks. Alendronate remains at the bone remodelling sites, effectively preventing bone resorption when present in sufficient concentration. Bisphosphonates are the primary treatment for osteoporosis and the once-weekly alendronate is a significant improvement in convenience. Unlike daily bisphosphonates, it does not require fasting and it has been widely accepted in the market.
When To Stop Alendronic Acid
You will often take alendronic acid for 3 to 5 years. Your doctor will check if you still need it. If you are on long-term steroid treatment, you will usually take it until you stop using steroids.
Alendronic Acid Has Destroyed My Life
You should only stop taking alendronic acid when your doctor tells you to. It can be harmful if you stop taking it suddenly without getting a proper evaluation from your healthcare provider. Typically, you need to take alendronic acid for 6-12 months to help strengthen your bones. However, your doctor might advise you to continue taking the medication for at least three years to receive long-term benefits.
When you stop this medication, you will need to focus on maintaining your bone health and density through lifestyle and diet. If you don't do this, your bones could become much weaker and you may be at risk of severe fractures if you do not take proper care of your bone health.