Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate/Vitamin D3) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Fosamax Plus D Uses 

Fosamax Plus D generic, alendronate sodium & cholecalciferol is an oral medication indicated to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is also prescribed to increase bone mass among men with osteoporosis. However, this medication should not be used to treat vitamin D deficiency. 

This is available in Fosamax Plus D 70 mg/2800 IU and 70 mg/5600 IU tablet forms. 

How does Fosamax Plus D work? 

This product is a combination of bisphosphonates and vitamin D analogs. This medication has an action on the localization to the sites of bone resorption, particularly under osteoclasts. It does not impede osteoclast recruitment or attachment, but it inhibits osteoclast activity. Additionally, it supplies vitamin D, which is required in normal bone formation. 

How to use Fosamax Plus D 

First, read the drug information page that came with this medicine. Do not take this type of prescription drug if you have not yet fully understood the drug information and warnings in the guide provided. If you need more medical advice or have inquiries about the uses of this medication, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take the tablet orally. This is usually taken once a week or as prescribed by your physician. You must take this medication upon waking up in the morning or before taking your first meal, beverage, or other drugs. Swallow the medication whole and drink a full glass of plain water. Do not divide, suck, or chew the tablet. Then, stay in an upright position for not less than 30 minutes. It could be standing, sitting, or walking. Further, you should also wait for 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications. 

Remember to take this medication on a regular basis and exactly as directed. To avoid skipping doses, create a dosage regimen. Do not alter your Fosamax Plus D dosage and frequency as it is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Also, you should not stop taking this medication unless advised because doing so could lead to worsening conditions. 

Fosamax Plus D Side Effects 

Common side effects: 

-nausea 

-headache 

-gas 

-stomach upset  

-constipation  

-diarrhea 

-back pain 

In most situations, the adverse effects of this medicine are minor and transient. If the adverse reactions do not get better or become worse, you must hold this medication and talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Furthermore, you should report any serious adverse effects, such as: 

-jaw or ear pain 

-swelling of the extremities 

-increased or severe bone pain 

-muscle pain 

-joint pain 

-black/tarry stool 

-vomit that looks like coffee grounds 

-worsening heartburn 

-difficulty swallowing 

-chest pain 

This is not a full or complete list of the side effects of Fosamax Plus D. 

Precautions when using Fosamax Plus D 

Before you begin using this medication, you must disclose your complete medical history with your physician. This includes any history of esophageal stricture or achalasia, recent bone fractures, trouble standing or sitting, difficulty swallowing, low calcium levels, gastrointestinal disorders, and kidney problems. Some diseases or disorders may affect how your body will respond to the medication. Also, you should discuss all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking because of possible drug interactions. 

Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions while on this treatment. Do not take this medication if you have a known allergy to alendronate, vitamin D3, vitamin D products, bisphosphonates, or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Immediately call for emergency medical help once you experience signs of severe hypersensitivities, such as hives/itchiness, swelling of the face and neck, skin rashes, severe dizziness, and breathing trouble. 

This medication may increase the risk of having serious jawbone problems. Your physician will ask you to have your mouth checked before starting your course of treatment. To avoid any jawbone problems, have regular dental examinations and practice good oral hygiene. Also, you must report to a healthcare provider right away if you experience jaw pain. 

Pregnant or breastfeeding moms must avoid using this oral medication because of the harm that it could cause to unborn babies and breastfed infants. This medication may stay in the body for many years and may also pass into the breastmilk. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between Fosamax and Fosamax Plus D? 

The former only contains alendronate, while the latter has alendronate and cholecalciferol. 

Why should I take Fosamax on an empty stomach? 

This prescription medication is best absorbed on an empty stomach. 

What medications could interact with Fosamax Plus D? 

Some medications that may decrease the absorption of Fosamax Plus D are didanosine, quinapril, antacids, calcium or iron supplements, cholestyramine, colestipol, and orlistat.  

Are there foods that I should avoid while taking Fosamax D Plus? 

While taking this drug, avoid dairy products, coffee, mineral water, tea, calcium-enriched juice, and products with olestra. 

How much is Fosamax Plus D? 

You can check the Fosamax Plus D price from this page.