subject: Knowing How Fosamax Works [print this page] Alendronate, commonly known as Fosamax, belongs to the class of medications called bisphophonates. Bisphophonates are used for treating osteoporosis (reduced density of bone that leads to fractures) and bone pain from diseases such as metastatic breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and Paget's Disease. A Bone Health Guideline has also been recently published by a Canadian charity which is aimed to also help with these illnesses.
Osteoblasts and osteoclasts are the cells which reform the bones. The way these cells work is that they continuously deposit and remove calcium and phosphorous, stored in a protein network that makes up the structure of the bone. Because of this constant state of fluctuation of being built and taken down, there can be lapses of bone loss compared to bone formation. The way that Fosamax was designed to help human bones is to prevent the constant breakdown of bones which would strengthen the bones over a period of time.
To treat osteoporosis most doctors would recommend about 5-10 mg daily or 35-70 mg weekly.Paget's Disease is treated with 40 mg once daily for six months.
Eating food and taking in other medications can actually interfere with the absorption of Fosamax, so it is also recommended that they should be taken at least 30 minutes before Fosamax. In order to avoid chemical irritation of the esophagus (the swallowing tube that connects the mouth with the stomach), Fosamax should be taken with a full glass of plain water immediately upon waking up in the morning and never chewed or sucked. If you currently have problems with your esophagus which could delay esophageal emptying, such as scarring (stricture) or poor motility (achalasia) then taking Fosamax should be avoided. Patients should also not lie down for 30 minutes after swallowing the tablets.
Fosamax also have several side effects that should be known. Stomach pains are the most common of these side effects. Other side effects of Fosamax may include: nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, black stool (due to intestinal bleeding), change in taste perception, and muscle or joint pain.
Knowing the most that people can about Fosamax is important, especially if they are thinking about filing a Fosamax lawsuit. If they would like to know more about Fosamax and how it works or possible side effects they may consult with their doctor.
