Alendronic acid at a glance
Medicine class
Bisphosphonate.
Licensed role
Treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, reducing vertebral and hip fracture risk.
Administration
Take after getting up, on an empty stomach, with plain tap water only.
Protect the food pipe
Swallow whole and remain sitting or standing upright for at least 30 minutes.
What is Alendronic acid used for?
The selected product is licensed in adults for:
Treatment of osteoporosis after the menopause.
Reduction of vertebral and hip fracture risk in postmenopausal osteoporosis.
How does Alendronic acid work?
Alendronic acid binds preferentially to bone undergoing active breakdown. It inhibits osteoclasts—the cells that remove bone—slowing bone resorption so bone density can be maintained or increased.
Alendronic acid preparations and strengths
Tablet
Route: Oral
Strengths: 70 mg
How to take Alendronic acid
Follow the instructions for the exact formulation supplied.
Take after getting up for the day, before food, drinks or other oral medicines.
Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of plain tap water; do not chew, crush or suck it.
Do not use mineral water, milk, tea, coffee or juice.
Remain sitting or standing upright for at least 30 minutes and until after the first food of the day.
Do not take at bedtime or before getting up for the day.
Alendronic acid side effects
Common or expected effects
- Bone, muscle or joint pain
- Abdominal pain, indigestion or acid reflux
- Constipation, diarrhoea, wind or bloating
- Headache, dizziness or vertigo
- Joint swelling, tiredness or peripheral swelling
- Itching or hair thinning
Get urgent medical advice
- Painful or difficult swallowing, chest pain, or new or worsening heartburn
- Severe allergic reaction, including facial or throat swelling or breathing difficulty
- Jaw pain, swelling, mouth sores or a loose tooth
- New thigh, hip or groin pain
- Muscle spasms or tingling that may indicate low blood calcium
- Black or red stools, severe abdominal pain or other signs of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Painful red eyes or blurred vision
- Severe blistering or peeling skin reaction
Alendronic acid in pregnancy
Alendronic acid is not recommended during pregnancy because human safety information is limited and bisphosphonates remain stored in bone. Anyone planning pregnancy or becoming pregnant during or after treatment should discuss this with their prescriber. Exposure alone does not usually require extra fetal-malformation monitoring.
Alendronic acid while breastfeeding
UK NHS patient information says alendronic acid is usually compatible with breastfeeding because infant exposure is expected to be very low. However, the selected product information advises against use because transfer into milk is unknown. A prescriber or pharmacist should assess the individual situation and product.
Alendronic acid interactions
Food, drinks and several oral products can substantially reduce absorption. Important examples include:
Calcium, iron, magnesium or zinc supplements
They interfere with alendronic acid absorption and should not be swallowed at the same time.
Antacids and magnesium-containing laxatives
They reduce absorption when taken at the same time.
Common questions about Alendronic acid
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can I take alendronic acid with coffee, milk or mineral water?
No. Use plain tap water only because other drinks can markedly reduce absorption.
Why must I stay upright after taking it?
This helps the tablet reach the stomach and reduces irritation or ulceration of the food pipe.
More questions about Alendronic acid
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.