| name | Alendronate |
| classification | Bisphosphonate, Bone Resorption Inhibitor |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, requiring an empty stomach for maximum absorption. High oral bioavailability is limited. | | distribution | Accumulates in bone tissue. | | metabolism | Minimal hepatic metabolism. Excreted primarily unchanged in urine. | | elimination | Elimination half-life is variable, ranging from several weeks to months. |
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| suggested dosage | | adult male 25yrs 70kg | 70 mg once weekly, or 10 mg once daily. Specific dosing depends on indication and severity of bone loss. |
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| indications | | 1 | Osteoporosis (prevention and treatment, postmenopausal and in men) | | 2 | Paget's disease of bone | | 3 | Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis |
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| safety in pregnancy | Category C. Alendronate is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential harm to the developing fetus or infant. Consult a physician. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Contraindicated due to unknown effects on breast milk and infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal issues (dyspepsia, heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain) | | 2 | Esophageal ulcers (especially with inappropriate administration) | | 3 | Muscle, joint, or bone pain | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Fatigue | | 6 | Skin reactions | | 7 | Possible rare serious side effects such as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) or atypical femoral fractures, especially with long-term use and high doses or specific risk factors. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to alendronate or other bisphosphonates | | 2 | Inability to sit upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication due to risk of esophageal irritation. | | 3 | Significant esophageal abnormalities (strictures, narrowing) | | 4 | Active or recent esophageal disease | | 5 | Inability to swallow the medication properly | | 6 | Severe renal impairment |
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| interactions | | 1 | Certain drugs that can affect absorption, such as antacids or calcium supplements should not be taken within 2-4 hours of alendronate (separate administration). |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Risk of esophageal irritation and ulcers increases with incorrect intake. Always take with a full glass of plain water and remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication. | | 2 | Proper patient education on administration is critical. | | 3 | Monitor for signs and symptoms of esophagitis. | | 4 | Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Consult with physician. | | 5 | Potential for osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) exists with prolonged use, especially in combination with certain medical conditions or treatments. |
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| additional informations | Consult your physician for personalized dosage and treatment recommendations. Alendronate is effective in treating or preventing osteoporosis and related conditions, but must be used with appropriate cautions and monitoring. The decision to prescribe alendronate or alternative medications depends on the individual patient's overall health and risk factors. |
