# Alendronate Sodium (Fosamax)

Source: https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs/alendronate-sodium
Data: FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA, refreshed periodically

## What is Alendronate Sodium?

Alendronate Sodium (brand name: Fosamax) is a bisphosphonate (bone density). It is prescribed to treat osteoporosis, postmenopausal, paget disease. Across the United States, 157,000 doctors prescribe Alendronate to approximately 1.8 million Medicare patients, making it one of the 50 most prescribed drugs in America.

## Brand names

Fosamax

## Indications

Alendronate Sodium is prescribed for several conditions including osteoporosis, postmenopausal, paget disease, among others.

## Conditions treated

- [Osteoporosis](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/osteoporosis)
- [Postmenopausal](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/postmenopausal)
- [Paget Disease](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/paget-disease)
- [Extramammary](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/extramammary)

## Mechanism of action

Animal studies have indicated the following mode of action. At the cellular level, alendronate shows preferential localization to sites of bone resorption, specifically under osteoclasts.

## Drug classification

- Established Pharmacologic Class: Bisphosphonate (Bone Density)
- Route of administration: ORAL

## Common side effects

abdominal pain, acid regurgitation, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, musculoskeletal pain, nausea

## Sources and disclaimers

- FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA dataset
- This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

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