Fosamax attaches to bones to prevent bone breakdown, lowering the risk of fractures. It treats and prevents osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, osteoporosis in men caused by steroid medications and Paget's disease.

Take Fosamax exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Fosamax is taken either once daily or once per week. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or longer than recommended.

Usually, take Fosamax first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before you eat, drink, or take any other medicine. If you take this medicine only once per week, take it on the same day each week and always first thing in the morning.

Take a full glass (6 to 8 ounces) of plain water. Do not use coffee, tea, soda, juice, or mineral water. Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water. Do not crush, chew, or suck on a Fosamax tablet. Swallow the tablet whole.

For at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax:

• Do not lie down or recline.
• Do not take other medications, including vitamins, calcium, or antacids.

Before taking Fosamax, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: disorders of the esophagus, trouble swallowing, trouble standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes, low calcium levels, kidney problems, and stomach/intestinal disorders.

Follow all instructions about stopping or starting this medication.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Fosamax: hives; wheezing, difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Fosamax's most common side effects may include the following:

• heartburn
• upset stomach
• stomach pain
• nausea
• diarrhea
• constipation
• bone pain
• muscle pain
• joint pain 

Tell the doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Fosamax. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What is Fosamax?

Fosamax is a prescription medicine used to prevent and treat certain types of bone loss (osteoporosis) in adults. Fosamax may be used alone or with other medications.

Can you drink alcohol while taking Fosamax?

While taking Fosamax, your healthcare provider may advise you to reduce your alcohol intake. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol (more than 2 or 3 drinks a day) increases the risk of osteoporosis, which can lead to fractures.

Fosamax takes calcium as part of its treatment program; avoiding alcohol is recommended because of the multiple effects of alcohol on calcium. 

What are Fosamax side effects?

Stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, or nausea may occur. Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if any of these effects persist or worsen.