ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER DRUG RANGE



 Drug family: Bisphosphonate

This drug is a generic of FOSAMAX

IN WHICH CASE IS THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER PRESCRIBED?

This drug belongs to the family of bisphosphonates. It works by blocking cells that destroy bone and fighting against demineralization. Studies have shown that it decreases the risk of vertebral and hip fractures due to osteoporosis .

It is used in the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

You can consult the following article(s):

  • Osteoporosis

PRESENTATIONS OF THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER

ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER 70 mg  : tablet (white); box of 4
On prescription (List I) - Reimbursable at 65% -  Price:  €8.84 .
ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER 70 mg  : tablet (white); box of 12
On prescription (List I) - Reimbursable at 65% -  Price:  €26.42 .

The prices mentioned do not take into account the pharmacist's " dispensing fees ".

COMPOSITION OF THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER

p cp
Alendronic acid70mg
Excipients  : Carrageenan, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Croscarmellose Na Salt , Luster Clear LC 103, Macrogol 8000, Magnesium Stearate, Colloidal Anhydrous Silica

CONTRAINDICATIONS OF THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER

This medicine should not be used in the following cases:
  • disease of the esophagus which can cause the tablet to block before it goes down into the stomach,

  • inability to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes,

  • hypocalcemia .

ATTENTION

This medicine can be irritating to the mouth or the esophagus, it is important:
  • not to chew or suck the tablet;

  • to take the tablet in a sitting or standing position, with a large glass of water;

  • not to lie down within half an hour of taking it.

Its use is contraindicated in people who cannot follow these recommendations.

Tell your doctor if you have digestive problems like heartburn, acidity, or burning behind your breastbone .

Damage to the jaw bones which can lead to tooth loss has been reported in some people taking bisphosphonates. A dental examination and preventive care may be necessary before starting treatment, especially in the event of a history of cancer chemotherapy , radiotherapy , or taking corticosteroids . Tell your doctor promptly if you experience dental pain, swollen gums or loose teeth

Unusual fractures of the femur have been observed in patients treated with bisphosphonate, mainly during prolonged treatment. In case of persistent pain, weakness or discomfort in the thigh, hip or groin, contact your doctor immediately.

Due to lack of data, this drug is not recommended in severe renal impairment .

INTERACTIONS OF THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER WITH OTHER SUBSTANCES

This medication may worsen stomach upset caused by aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs .

Other medications (especially digestive dressings or those containing calcium) should be taken at least half an hour after taking this medication.

FERTILITY, PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

This drug has no indication in premenopausal women.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND DOSAGE OF THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER

The tablet should be taken with a large glass of water (tap water or mineral water low in calcium and magnesium), in a sitting or standing position, at least half an hour before the absorption of breakfast (or lunch in women who do not eat in the morning).

It should never be taken at bedtime or before getting up.

USUAL DOSE:

  • Adult : 1 tablet of 70 mg per week , always to be taken on the same day of the week. If you forget a tablet, take 1 tablet the morning after the day of the observation of the forgetfulness, and take the tablet following the day of intake initially chosen. Do not take 2 tablets on the same day.

TIPS

Throughout the duration of the treatment, calcium intake is necessary, either through food (dairy products) or through specific joint treatment.

Regular physical exercise, adapted to age and physical condition, helps to limit the progression of osteoporosis .

Moderate alcohol consumption and smoking cessation are also recommended, as they promote bone loss.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF THE DRUG ALENDRONIC ACID ALTER

Very common (more than 10% of patients): bone, joint and/or muscle pain, sometimes debilitating. Usually these effects go away when treatment is stopped.

Common (1-10% of patients): headache, dizziness, vertigo , abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating , flatulence, diarrhea or constipation , hair loss, itching, fatigue, joint swelling.

Uncommon (less than 1 in 100 patients): taste disturbances, uveitis , nausea, vomiting, inflammation of the stomach or esophagus, redness of the skin.

Rare (less than 1 in 1,000 patients): peptic ulcer , allergic reaction ( urticaria , angioedema , etc.), severe skin reaction with formation of blisters.

As with other bisphosphonates: weakening of the bones of the jaw or ear canal (which may result in pain, discharge or chronic ear infections), fracture of the femur occurring atypically without a fall or after a shock light (see Warning).