Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Sodium, Vitamin D3)

Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate/Cholecalciferol) Medication Information

Uses

Fosamax Plus D is a combination of bisphosphonate and vitamin D indicated for: 

• Treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women 
• Treatment to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis

Dosage

The oral tablets are available in several different strengths:

• 70 mg/2800 IU
• 70 mg/5600 IU

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Fosamax Plus D include:

• Abdominal pain
• Acid regurgitation
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dyspepsia
• Pain
• Nausea

For a full list of side effects that apply to you, don’t hesitate and please ask your pharmacist or doctor.

Precautions

Upper Gastrointestinal adverse reactions can occur. Patients should follow dosing instructions. Discontinue if new or worse symptoms occur. 

Low calcium levels can worsen and must be corrected before use. 

Severe Bone, Joint, Muscle Pain may occur. Discontinue use if severe symptoms develop. 

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw has been reported. 

Atypical leg fractures have been reported. 

Patients experiencing new-onset thigh or groin pain should be evaluated to rule out an incomplete femoral fracture. 

Interactions

Common medications that interact with Fosamax Plus D are listed:

• Calcium
• Antacids
• Aspirin
• NSAIDs

To receive more information, ask your pharmacist or doctor.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (68-77ºF). Protect from moisture and light. Until ready to use, store the tablets in the original blister package. 

Pharmacist Tips

• Take supplemental calcium, if daily dietary intake is inadequate.
• Advise patients to consider weight-bearing exercises as well as consider modification of certain behavioral factors such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. 
• Patients should not chew or suck on the tablet because of a potential for oropharyngeal ulceration.

Fosamax Plus D FAQs

Can this be taken with or without food?

Fosamax Plus D should be taken with plain water the first thing upon arising for the day at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day.

Is this medication safe to use if  I am pregnant?

Fosamax Plus D should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the mother and fetus. 

How long does it take Fosamax Plus D to start working?

It can take several months before your bone density starts to change

What happens if I take Fosamax Plus D with food?

If Fosamax Plus D is taken with food, it can decrease the amount of drug that is absorbed by the body, and reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

What does Fosamax Plus D do for osteoporosis?

Fosamax Plus D works to prevent the body from bone reabsorption to increase bone density.

What is the most common side effect with Fosamax Plus D?

The most common side effects seen with Fosamax Plus D are constipation, heartburn, diarrhea, and joint pain. 

Related Drugs

• Actonel
• Boniva
• Evista
• Fosamax

Reference:

Fosamax Plus D {package insert}. White Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc; 2013.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/021762s018lbl.pdf