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Alendronate Effervescent Oral Tablet (ALENDRONATE EFFERVESCENT WEEKLY - ORAL)

For bone strength.

Brand Name(s): Binosto

Generic Name: Alendronic Acid

Instructions

Dissolve the tablet in half a cup (120 mL) of water at room temperature. After the bubbling stops, wait at least 5 minutes for the tablet to dissolve completely. Stir the liquid for 10 seconds and then drink it.

Do not use any liquid except water to dissolve the tablets.

Drink the medicine immediately after mixing.

Do not chew the tablet or swallow it whole. Doing so can be painful and dangerous.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Take the medicine on an empty stomach.

Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after taking this medicine.

Sit or stand upright for 30 minutes after taking the medicine. Do not lie down.

After taking this medicine, wait 30 minutes before taking any other medicine.

Take the medicine first thing in the morning.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine contains sodium. If you are on a low sodium diet, consider this as part of your total sodium diet.

Visit your dentist regularly. Proper care of your teeth is very important while taking this medicine. Brush your teeth and floss regularly.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for bone fractures.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation or diarrhea
  • excess gas
  • nausea
  • stomach pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent bone, joint or jaw pain
  • chest pain
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • discomfort or pain in the ear
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
  • muscle cramps
  • numbness of mouth or throat
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • dark, tarry stool
  • difficulty swallowing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.