| name | Alendronate |
| classification | Bisphosphonate |
| pharmacokinetics | Alendronate is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Maximum absorption occurs in the proximal small intestine. Peak plasma concentrations are usually attained within 1-2 hours after oral administration. High oral bioavailability of 0.6-1% is observed, with a large fraction of the drug being excreted in the urine, unchanged. The drug is primarily eliminated through renal excretion as an unchanged drug. |
| dosage | | male patient 25 70kg | | amount | 70 mg | | frequency | once weekly | | instructions | Preferably in the morning with a full glass of water, at least 30 minutes before eating or other medications. Individualized dosage depends on the underlying condition and response to therapy. This must be discussed with a physician. |
| | additional notes | Always follow your physician's instructions carefully. |
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| indications | | 1 | Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at increased risk for fractures. | | 2 | Treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. |
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| safety in pregnancy | Contraindicated. It is unknown if alendronate is excreted in human milk, and it may harm a breastfed infant. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Contraindicated. It is unknown if alendronate is excreted in human milk, and it may harm a breastfed infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., heartburn, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea) | | 2 | Esophageal irritation and ulceration (rare, but serious). Increased risk with improper administration. | | 3 | Musculoskeletal pain | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Muscle spasms |
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| alternative drugs | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to alendronate or other bisphosphonates. | | 2 | Hypocalcemia | | 3 | Esophageal abnormalities | | 4 | Difficulty swallowing |
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| drug interactions | | 1 | | drug | Antacids | | result | Reduced absorption |
| | 2 | | drug | Calcium supplements | | result | Reduced absorption |
| | 3 | | drug | Iron supplements | | result | Reduced absorption |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Take alendronate on an empty stomach with a full glass of water to optimize absorption. | | 2 | Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to prevent esophageal irritation. | | 3 | Individuals with certain gastrointestinal conditions may require further precautions or alternative therapies. | | 4 | Report any severe or persistent side effects to your physician immediately. |
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| additional information | | 1 | The use of bisphosphonates should be part of a comprehensive management plan that also includes lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) and monitoring of bone health. | | 2 | Long-term use may be necessary, and follow-up appointments with your physician are vital. |
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