Question 1

what is the definition or description of: alendronate allergy?

Accepted Answer

Alendronate: is usually used in the treatment of osteoporosis.   Allergy is the immune system's over-reaction to various stimuli(antigens), and can occur with any drug. Allergic reaction can range in severity from mild(hives) to life-threatening(anaphylaxis).

Question 2

is alendronate a sulfa drug?

Accepted Answer

Alendronate: Aka Fosamax (alendronate) is a bisphosphonate, not a sulfa drug.

Question 3

what are side effects of the drug alendronate/fosamax for osteoporosis..?

Accepted Answer

Mostly heartburn: Alendronate is generally well tolerated. Reflux is the most common side effect. It can also cause bone pain, esophageal ulcers or narrowing. The generic alendronate may have more GI side effects because it is not coated. This concern has not been answered adequately  enough in large studies. It is very important to discuss these issues with your physician.

Question 4

problems with fosamax (alendronate)?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Risks with prolonged use best to stop after a couple years.

Question 5

could fosamax (alendronate) break your femur?

Accepted Answer

Unlikely: Hi. Alendronate and other antiresorptive osteoporosis drugs have been associated with a very low but real risk of atypical femur fracture (subtrochanteric fracture in the shaft made of cortical bone). The risk is very low, and a cause and effect relationship is not absolutely established. But yes, the risk appears to be there. Remember all the fractures bisphosphonates PREVENT also, however!

Question 6

can fosamax (alendronate) cause a tmj bone disorder?

Accepted Answer

Doubtful: I know of fosamx causing other issues in the head and neck area but never heard it causing specific pathology's of the tmj.  If there is TMJ discomfort and Fosamax (alendronate) is involved, it could be a domino effect and the drug didn't actually cause tmj, but TMJ symptoms came about from another pathology.

Question 7

what happens if you need a tooth removed on fosamax (alendronate)?

Accepted Answer

Risk of bone problem: There is an increased risk of ONJ (osteonecrosis of the jaw) especially the lower jaw.  There is no perfect treatment of this condition.  From a dental standpoint, it is preferable to have any extractions done before starting therapy with any medications for osteoporosis in order to reduce this risk, or to discontinue the medication prior to an extraction.  The dentist and physician should confer.

Question 8

anyone have a problem with fosamax (alendronate) and osteonecrosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes: I have not personally, but this is a problem that has been written about extensively. There is a direct causal relationship between the two.

Question 9

is it safe to take alendronate if i have a history of acid reflux?  i know not to lay down for 1/2 hour.

Accepted Answer

Yes: Alendronate can cause irritation of the esophagus and stomach and cause erosions.  You can take the medications but must monitor closely for symptoms such as burning of throat or stomach or dark stools.  You may also consider being on antacid medication to protect your stomach.  speak with your PCP regarding other classes of medications.  Make sure you have good calcium, vit d levels and exercise.

Question 10

how long should i take fosamax (alendronate) ?

Accepted Answer

2 years: Take it for 2 years until you have a follow up DEXA scan done to evaluate the improvement in your bone density.  It is debatable on how long you can take biphosphonates (the class Fosamax (alendronate) belongs to). Some say you may take it indefinitely, while other recommend taking it for 4-5 years and then take a "holiday" for a year or two. As i mentioned, take it for 2 years and see what happens.

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Doctor answers about:

Medicine for alendronate allergy

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: alendronate allergy?

A member asked:

Is alendronate a sulfa drug?

A member asked:

What are side effects of the drug alendronate/fosamax for osteoporosis..?

A member asked:

Problems with fosamax (alendronate)?

A member asked:

Could fosamax (alendronate) break your femur?

A member asked:

Can fosamax (alendronate) cause a tmj bone disorder?

A member asked:

What happens if you need a tooth removed on fosamax (alendronate)?

A member asked:

Anyone have a problem with fosamax (alendronate) and osteonecrosis?

A member asked:

Is it safe to take alendronate if i have a history of acid reflux? i know not to lay down for 1/2 hour.

A member asked:

How long should i take fosamax (alendronate) ?

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