Medication information
Prescription

Alendronate

Weekly bisphosphonate for osteoporosis

Alendronate (Fosamax) is a once-weekly tablet for osteoporosis. It must be taken first thing in the morning with a full glass of plain water, and the patient must stay upright (no lying down) for 30 minutes.

How the pharmacy helps

We dispense the 70 mg weekly dose. The pharmacist will review the take-it-right routine carefully — the way it is taken really affects how well it works and whether it causes esophagus issues.

Access framing

Available by prescription only.

Access

Available by prescription only.

Forms and strengths

Medication entries grouped here

Strengths, dosage forms, brands, or package entries may vary. Your prescription label and pharmacist counselling are the instructions to follow.

Brand / GenericStrengthFormDINRecord
Fosamax
Alendronate
70mgTabletActive
COMMON QUESTIONS

Questions
Alendronate Questions

It absorbs poorly, and lying down right after can cause severe esophagus irritation. The morning + upright routine matters.
Often 3–5 years, then reassessed. Some patients take a "drug holiday" after that.
Major dental work is usually planned around bisphosphonate therapy. Tell your dentist you are on it.

Have questions about this medication?

Call the pharmacy or bring the medication to the counter. We can help compare labels, dosing schedules, storage needs, and questions to ask your prescriber.

Back to medication information