Fosamax/Alendronate comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Fosamax/Alendronate should be taken once a day in the morning on an empty stomach. Fosamax/Alendronate should be taken with a full glass (6-8 ounces) of plain water. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate before you eat, drink, or take other medications. Do not take Fosamax/alendronate with mineral water, coffee, orange juice, milk, or other dairy products. Do not suck or chew the Fosamax/Alendronate tablet; swallow the Fosamax tablet whole. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax/alendronate. Standing or sitting upright helps you get the full dose and decreases heartburn or the risk of injury to your esophagus. Follow the Fosamax directions on your Fosamax prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Fosamax/alendronate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of Fosamax or take Fosamax more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking Fosamax/alendronate without talking to your doctor.

SIDE-EFFECTS FOSAMAX are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Fosamax symptoms are severe or do not go away: * gas with Fosamax/alendronate * bloating with Fosamax/alendronate * constipation with Fosamax/alendronate * diarrhea with Fosamax/alendronate * stomach irritation or upset stomach with Fosamax/alendronate * acid regurgitation (reflux) with Fosamax/alendronate * stomach pain with Fosamax/alendronate * headache with Fosamax/alendronate * muscle or bone pain with Fosamax/alendronate If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: * difficulty swallowing with Fosamax/alendronate * pain during swallowing with Fosamax/alendronate * chest pain with Fosamax/alendronate * new or worsening heartburn with Fosamax/alendronate * vomiting blood with Fosamax/alendronate * Overdose with Fosamax/alendronate Symptoms of Fosamax overdose may include: * upset stomach * heartburn * bloody vomit * vomiting material that looks like coffee ground * stomach pain

It is important that you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking Fosamax/alendronate. Your doctor may prescribe supplements if your dietary intake is not sufficient. Remember that Fosamax/alendronate should be taken with at least 6-8 ounces of water. Food, drinks, and other drugs (including vitamins, calcium, and vitamin D) should not be taken for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax/alendronate.

Take the missed Fosamax dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Fosamax dose, skip the missed Fosamax dose and continue your regular Fosamax dosing schedule. Do not take a double Fosamax dose to make up for a missed one.

Keep Fosamax in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Fosamax at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Fosamax medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Fosamax medication.

Follow you doctor's recommendations about drinking alcohol and smoking. These activities are related to decreased bone density.