Fosamax – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Wednesday, September 05, 2018 by Zoey Sky

Fosamax is a drug used to treat and prevent osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become thin and weak, in menopausal women. The drug is also used to treat male patients with osteoporosis.

Fosamax is also used to treat osteoporosis in adults who take corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are a type of medication that can cause osteoporosis in some individuals.

Additionally, Fosamax is used to treat Paget’s disease of bone, where the bones soften, weaken, or become deformed. The drug belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates that prevent bones from breaking down and increase bone density/thickness.

Fosamax’s generic name is alendronate, and its other brand names include Binosto.

Known health risks or side effects of Fosamax

Fosamax may cause common side effects such as:

Bone, joint, or muscle pain
Constipation, diarrhea
Heartburn, upset stomach
Nausea, stomach pain

You may require immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:

Burning or pain in the back or under the ribs
Burning pain in the upper stomach, coughing up blood, or severe heartburn
Chest pain, new or worsening heartburn
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Jaw pain, numbness, or swelling
Low calcium levels – Signs include muscle contractions/spasms or numbness/a tingly feeling near the mouth or in the fingers and toes.
New or unusual pain in the hip or thigh
Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain

List of organs that might be affected by Fosamax

An overdose of Fosamax may cause the following complications:

Bloody or black and tarry stools
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
Heartburn
Nausea
Stomach pain

An overdose of the drug can also cause an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing; hives; or the swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, consult a healthcare professional. If your symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Fosamax

The following foods or nutrients, which have similar effects to Fosamax, can help stop bone loss:

Black cohosh – Black cohosh has phytoestrogens or estrogen-like substances, that can help prevent bone loss.
Horsetail – Horsetail contains silicon that may help stimulate bone regeneration. It can be used as a herbal compress or taken as a tea or tincture.
Red clover – Red clover is a herb that has estrogen-like compounds that can help protect bone. Consult a healthcare professional before you take this herb, which may interact with other drugs and cause side effects.
Soy – Soybeans used to make products like tofu and soymilk have isoflavones, which are estrogen-like compounds that can strengthen your bones and prevent bone loss.

Treatment and management options for the side effects of Fosamax

The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with Fosamax, such as acid reflux or heartburn:

Aloe vera juice – Aloe vera juice can help calm and soothe digestive disorders like heartburn and ulcers. Always use fresh and organic aloe for the best results. Take a small piece of fresh aloe then peel the skin. Add some water, blend, and drink the juice every day.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) – Apple cider vinegar can help relieve acid reflux by improving stomach acid production and digestion. Add two teaspoons of ACV cider vinegar in a glass of water. Mix and drink ACV every day.
Baking soda – Baking soda can help reduce ulcer pain. It can also minimize stomach acid levels and provide relief from pain and inflammation. Combine a teaspoon of baking soda with one glass of water. Mix and drink daily.