Alendronate: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions
Brand names: Binosto
# Alendronate Overview Alendronate is a medicine used to treat and prevent osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and break easily. It's especially helpful for women after menopause and for people taking certain medications that weaken bones. This drug works by slowing down bone loss and helping bones stay strong and healthy. It comes in different forms, including tablets and fizzy drinks, that you take by mouth according to your doctor's instructions. To use alendronate safely, there are some important things to remember. Never take it at the same time as calcium supplements, antacids, or other medications that contain certain minerals, because these can stop your body from absorbing the medicine properly. You should also be careful if you take aspirin or similar pain relievers, as they might cause stomach problems when combined with alendronate. Always follow your doctor's directions exactly and talk to your pharmacist about any other medicines you're taking to make sure they won't interfere with alendronate.
Taking Alendronate with other medications?
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Check Now ↓Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- PAIN13,574 reports
- FATIGUE12,810 reports
- DRUG INEFFECTIVE12,363 reports
- FEMUR FRACTURE11,428 reports
- ARTHRALGIA11,083 reports
- RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS9,947 reports
- ALOPECIA9,892 reports
- ABDOMINAL DISCOMFORT9,818 reports
- SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS8,988 reports
- RASH8,739 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Recent Recalls (1)
- Class II
Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA INC · April 7, 2026
Alendronate Sodium Oral Solution, 70 mg/75 mL, 75 mL, Rx only, 4 x 75 mL Single Dose Bottles, Distr. by: Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922, NDC 0054-0282-59.This recall is being conducted due to out of specification assay results in a limited number of bottles that were stored on side.
Source: FDA (openFDA Drug Enforcement). Voluntary and mandated recalls affecting this drug.
Supplement Interactions (2)
These dietary supplements may interact with Alendronate. Always consult your healthcare provider.
- moderatecalcium
Calcium impairs absorption of bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis.
Take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before calcium.
- moderate
Check interactions with Alendronate:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.