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How should I take alendronate?

Take alendronate exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Alendronate tablets are taken either once each day or once each week.

Take the alendronate tablet first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything or take any other medicine. If you take an alendronate tablet only once a week, take it on the same day each week and always first thing in the morning.

Take each alendronate tablet with a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of water. Use only plain water (not mineral water) when taking an alendronate tablet. Do not crush, chew, or suck the alendronate tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

After taking an alendronate tablet, carefully follow these instructions:

• Do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate.
• 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. 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. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Alendronate 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 alendronate tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you take alendronate tablets once daily: If you forget to take this medicine first thing in the morning, do not take it later in the day. Wait until the following morning to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take take two (2) tablets in one day.

If you take alendronate tablets once a week: If you forget to take alendronate 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 take two (2) tablets in one day.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. 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.

Symptoms of an alendronate overdose 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 should I avoid while taking alendronate?

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