How to take Alendronate tablets for osteoporosis? (Alendronate Weekly Tablets)

As we age, bones gradually weaken and fractures occur, even from a minor fall. In medical terms, we call this condition osteoporosis. So, if your doctor has prescribed a medicine called Alendronate for this condition, there are a few things we need to be especially careful about when using it. In this article, we will talk about it simply.

What kind of medicine is Alendronate?

Simply put, Alendronate is a special medication used to treat osteoporosis. It belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates.

This medicine works by strengthening your bones and reducing the risk of them breaking easily (fracture). It is like adding a layer of cement to a weakened wall. It is usually taken as one pill per week.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication

It is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history before prescribing this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Dental or gum problems: If you have a dental condition or are scheduled to have surgery.
• Swallowing difficulties: If you have difficulty swallowing food or drink or if you have a sore throat.
• Kidney disease: If there is any problem related to kidney function.
• Low blood calcium levels: If you have been diagnosed with low blood calcium or other mineral levels.
• Stomach or intestinal problems: conditions such as gastritis, stomach ulcers.
• Difficulty staying in one position: If you are unable to stand or sit for at least 30 minutes at a time.
• Other medical conditions: Conditions such as cancer, bleeding disorders, and low red blood cell counts.
• Other medications: If you are using steroids (e.g., Prednisone).
• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding .
• If you have an allergy to this medicine or any other medicine, food, or dye.

How to use the medicine! (This is very important)

To get the most out of this medicine and avoid side effects, you need to know exactly how to take it. It is very important to follow these steps exactly and without any variations .

1. Take this pill first thing in the morning: Take this pill on the scheduled day of the week, as soon as you wake up in the morning, before you eat anything else.

2. Water only: The pill should be taken with a full glass of water (about 200 ml) . It is strictly forbidden to take it with any other drinks such as tea, coffee, milk, fruit drinks, soda, etc.

3. Do not chew or crush: Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew, crush, or suck.

4. 30-minute rule: After taking the pill, do not eat, drink (except water), or take any other medication/vitamin for at least 30 minutes .

5. Don't lie down: This is the most important thing. After taking the pill, stay upright for at least 30 minutes . Or sit in a chair with your back straight. Don't lie down in bed for any reason.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

Let's say you forget to take this pill that you take once a week on the day it is supposed to be taken. Don't worry. As soon as you remember, take the missed pill the next morning . But never take two pills in one day . Then, take the next pill on your usual day of the week (for example, every Sunday).

What are the possible side effects of taking the medicine?

Like any medicine, Alendronate can cause side effects in some people. Some of these may require immediate medical attention. Let's look at these in a table.

Further special considerations

Special attention to dental health!

You should take special care of your dental health while taking this medication.

• Before starting the medication, see a dentist to have your teeth examined and receive the necessary treatment.
• Be sure to tell your dentist that you are taking this medicine.
• Avoid major dental surgery, such as tooth extractions, as much as possible while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor and dentist about this.

Calcium and vitamin D

For this medicine to strengthen your bones, you need to have enough calcium and vitamin D in your body. So eat foods rich in calcium, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and small fish with shells. You will also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements if your doctor prescribes them.

Interaction with other medications

Calcium tablets, iron tablets, vitamins, and antacids taken for gastritis can reduce the absorption of this medicine. Therefore, these should be taken at least half an hour after taking Alendronate tablets. Sometimes you may have to delay it by a few hours. Get the right advice from your doctor about this.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .

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