Adronate

Description

This is a bone-strengthening medication that slows the natural breakdown of bones. By doing this, it helps bones stay stronger and reduces the risk of fractures. It works by interfering with the body’s natural bone breakdown process, allowing bones to maintain their density and strength.

Formula

Available in multiple dosage forms:

• 5 mg oral tablets
• 10 mg oral tablets
• 35 mg oral tablets
• 40 mg oral tablets
• 70 mg oral tablets
• 70 mg effervescent tablets for oral solution
• 70 mg/75 mL oral solution

What It’s Used For

Pakistani doctors use this for:

• Treatment or prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
• Treatment of osteoporosis in men
• Treatment or prevention of osteoporosis caused by steroid medications
• Treatment of Paget’s Disease (condition causing weak and misshapen bones)

How to Use

Critical Instructions:

• Take after you get up for the day, on an empty stomach
• Take at least 30 minutes before first food, drink (other than plain water), or other medicines
• Wait at least 30 minutes after taking before eating, drinking anything except plain water, or taking other medicines
• Don’t take with mineral water, coffee, tea, soda, juice, or milk

For Oral Tablets:

• Swallow whole with full glass (6-8 ounces) of plain water
• Don’t chew or suck on tablets

For Effervescent Tablets:

• Dissolve in half glass (4 ounces) of plain water at room temperature
• Wait 5 minutes after bubbling stops
• Stir for 10 seconds, then drink entire liquid
• Don’t chew or suck on tablets

For Oral Solution:

• Use accurate measuring device (not household spoon)
• After taking, drink at least quarter cup (2 ounces) of plain water

After Taking:

• Sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes
• Don’t lie down for at least 30 minutes
• May sit, stand, walk, or do upright activities

Who Shouldn’t Use It

• People allergic to Alendronate or any ingredients
• Esophagus problems
• Cannot sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes
• Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia)
• Severe kidney problems
• At risk of accidentally inhaling liquid (for oral solution form)

Precautions

• May require dental exam before starting treatment
• Tell doctor if planning dental surgery (tooth extraction, implants)
• Your doctor may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements (take at least 30 minutes after Alendronate)
• Each effervescent tablet contains 650 mg sodium—inform doctor if on low-sodium diet
• Keep out of reach of children
• Don’t share with others
• Discuss duration of treatment with your doctor

Use With Caution If You Have

• Malabsorption syndrome
• Barrett’s esophagus
• Stomach ulcers or inflammation
• Trouble swallowing
• Poor oral health or dental problems
• Cancer or blood disorders

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Pregnancy: Not known if it harms unborn baby. Stop immediately and contact doctor if you become pregnant while taking it.
• Breastfeeding: Not known if it passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Common:

• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach or indigestion
• Bone, joint, or muscle pain
• Nausea

Serious (Stop taking and get help immediately):

• Severe allergic reactions: Breathing problems, racing heart, swelling of face/lips/throat, trouble swallowing, skin rash, dizziness
• Esophagus problems: Trouble or pain swallowing, chest pain, new or worsening heartburn
• Low calcium levels: Heart rhythm changes, fainting, numbness/tingling, muscle spasms, seizures
• Severe bone/joint/muscle pain: Pain severe enough to interfere with normal activities
• Jawbone problems (osteonecrosis): Jaw pain, mouth sores, loose teeth
• Unusual thigh bone fractures: New or unusual pain in thigh, hip, or groin

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor if taking:

• Antacids or supplements containing calcium, aluminum, magnesium, or iron
• NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Corticosteroids
• Chemotherapy or radiation
• Levothyroxine (thyroid medicine)

Food Interactions

• Avoid food or drinks (except plain water) within 30 minutes of taking
• No mineral water, coffee, tea, soda, juice, or milk
• Alcohol effects unknown

Overdose

Get medical help immediately. Call 911 or Poison Control (800-222-1222). Don’t try to vomit. Don’t lie down.

Missed Dose

Don’t take later in the day. Take the morning after you remember, then return to normal schedule. Don’t take 2 doses same day.

Storage

Oral Tablets and Solution:

• Store at room temperature 68-77°F (20-25°C)
• Can be exposed to 59-86°F (15-30°C) briefly
• Store in cool, dry place
• Keep tightly closed
• Protect from light and moisture

Effervescent Tablets:

• Same temperature requirements
• Keep in original blister pack until ready to use

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a medical prescription.  Always consult your doctor and discuss any queries related to this medicine, including possible precautions, side effects, contraindications, or drug interactions.