Usage, Directions, Indication and Instructions
This is used to treat or prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily), steroid-induced osteoporosis, osteoporosis in men and women who are taking corticosteroids (a type of medication that may cause osteoporosis in some patients). This is also used to treat Paget's disease of bone (a condition in which the bones are soft and weak and may be deformed, painful, or easily broken).
Adverse Reactions, Precautions and Warning
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to it or any other medications. Do not forget to tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. You should know that this may cause severe bone, muscle, or joint pain. You may begin to feel this pain within days, months, or years after you first take it. Although this type of pain may begin after you have taken it for some time, it is important for you and your doctor to realize that it may be caused by the med. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor right away if you experience severe pain at any time during your treatment. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking it and your pain may go away after you stop taking the medication.
Dosage and Administration
The 5-mg and 10-mg tablets are usually taken on an empty stomach once a day in the morning, and the 35-mg and 70-mg tablets are usually taken on an empty stomach once a week in the morning. You must take it just after you get out of bed in the morning, before you eat or drink anything. Never take it at bedtime or before you wake up and get out of bed for the day. You should eat and drink plenty of foods and drinks that are rich in calcium and vitamin D while you are taking it.
Important
This controls osteoporosis and Paget's disease of bone but does not cure these conditions. It may take 3 months or longer before your bone density begins to increase. This helps to treat and prevent osteoporosis only as long as it is taken regularly. Continue to take this even if you feel well. Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor.
Take only under doctors directions.
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Fosamax® is a registered brand name of Merck and Co. Inc.