Ostomir

Indications

Alendronic Acid is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis (thin, weak bones) in women after the menopause and in men, and osteoporosis caused by long-term steroid medicines. It lowers the risk of fractures of the spine and hip. It is also used for Paget's disease of bone.

How It Works

Bone is constantly broken down and rebuilt. Alendronic Acid slows down the cells that break bone down (osteoclasts), so bone density increases and bones become stronger over time.

Dosage and Administration

Osteoporosis in adults: usually 70 mg once a week on the same day each week, or 10 mg once a day. Paget's disease: as prescribed.

How to take it (important): take it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, swallowed whole with a full glass of plain water (not tea, coffee, milk or juice). Stay sitting upright or standing for at least 30 minutes, and do not eat, drink anything else or take other medicines for at least 30 minutes. Do not take it at bedtime or while lying down. If a weekly dose is missed, take it the next morning, then go back to the usual day.

Interactions

• Calcium, iron, magnesium, antacids and other medicines stop it being absorbed; take them at least 30 minutes later, preferably later in the day.
• Painkillers such as Ibuprofen, Diclofenac and Aspirin can add to stomach and food pipe irritation.
• Food and drinks other than plain water reduce how well it works.

Contraindications

• Problems of the food pipe (oesophagus) that delay emptying, such as narrowing.
• Unable to sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes.
• Low blood calcium (hypocalcaemia), which must be corrected first.
• Severe kidney impairment.
• Allergy to alendronic acid or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Common: heartburn, indigestion, stomach pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea, and pain in bones, muscles or joints.

Get urgent medical help if you have: pain or difficulty swallowing, chest pain behind the breastbone, or new or worsening heartburn (stop the medicine); black stools or vomiting blood; signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or trouble breathing. Tell the doctor about jaw pain, loose teeth or a mouth sore that does not heal, new pain in the thigh, hip or groin, or ear pain or discharge.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is mainly used after the menopause; women who could become pregnant should discuss this with their doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

• Make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D; the doctor may prescribe supplements.
• Have a dental check-up before starting and keep good oral hygiene. Tell your dentist you take this medicine.
• Tell the doctor about kidney problems, stomach or food pipe problems, or planned dental surgery.
• The doctor will review the need for treatment after several years of use.

Overdose

Too much may cause low calcium, heartburn, stomach upset or ulcers. Drink a glass of milk or take an antacid to bind the medicine, stay upright, do not make yourself vomit, and seek medical advice promptly.

Therapeutic Class

Bisphosphonate (medicine for osteoporosis and bone disease).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.