FOSAMAX Administration and FOSAMAX Dosage
FOSAMAX must be taken at least one-half hour before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with plain water only (see PRECAUTIONS, Information for Patients). Other beverages (including mineral water), food, and some medications are likely to reduce the absorption of FOSAMAX (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions). Waiting less than 30 minutes, or taking FOSAMAX with food, beverages (other than plain water) or other medications will lessen the effect of FOSAMAX by decreasing
its absorption into the body.
FOSAMAX should only be taken upon arising for the day. To facilitate delivery to the stomach and thus reduce the potential for esophageal irritation, a FOSAMAX tablet should be swallowed with a full glass of water (6-8 oz). To facilitate gastric emptying FOSAMAX oral solution should be followed by at least 2 oz (a quarter of a cup) of water. Patients should not lie down for at least 30 minutes and until after their first food of the day. FOSAMAX should not be taken at bedtime or before arising for the day. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of esophageal adverse experiences.
Patients should receive supplemental calcium and vitamin D, if dietary intake is inadequate.
No dosage adjustment is necessary for the elderly or for patients with mild-to-moderate renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance 35 to 60 mL/min). FOSAMAX is not recommended for patients with more severe renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance <35 mL/min) due to lack of experience.
Treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women (see INDICATIONS AND USAGE)
The recommended dosage is:
- one 70 mg tablet once weekly
or - one bottle of 70 mg oral solution once weekly
or - one 10 mg tablet once daily
Treatment to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis
The recommended dosage is:
- one 70 mg tablet once weekly
or - one bottle of 70 mg oral solution once weekly
or - one 10 mg tablet once daily
Prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women (see INDICATIONS AND USAGE)
The recommended dosage is:
- one 35 mg tablet once weekly
or - one 5 mg tablet once daily
The safety of treatment and prevention of osteoporosis with FOSAMAX has been studied for up to 7 years.
