Take each dose in the morning with a full glass of water on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before eating. Do not take this medication with food, with other medications, or with any liquid other than tap water or bottled water. To prevent damage to your throat and esophagus, do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking a dose and until after you have eaten. Do not take this medication at bedtime. Alendronate is a compound that alters the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in your body.
Alendronate increases new bone formation.
Alendronate is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis and to treat Paget's disease. Alendronate is also used to treat osteoporosis that is caused by treatment with a corticosteroid. Alendronate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. You may not be able to take alendronate, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. This means that it is not known whether alendronate will harm an unborn baby.