Why is this medication prescribed?
Alendronate is in a class of medications used to strengthen bone. Bone is in a constant state of remodeling, whereby old bone is removed by cells called osteoclasts, and new bone is laid down by cells called osteoblasts. Alendronate inhibits bone removal by the osteoclasts.
This medicine is used to treat osteoporosis (thinning of bone) in women after menopause. After menopause, there is an increased rate of bone loss (resorption). In these patients, alendronate has been shown to increase bone density while strengthening bone, and decrease the rate of bone fractures. Alendronate is also helpful in the treatment of Paget's disease of the bone. Paget's disease is characterized by a disorderly and accelerated remodeling of the bone, leading to bone weakness and pain.
This medication can sometimes be prescribed for other uses, but it is strongly recommended that you ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Dosage and using this medicine
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
In case of an emergency/overdose