Alendronic Acid
About Alendronic Acid
Alendronic Acid belongs to the group of fortified bisphosphonates used in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and Paget’s disease of the bone. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle. Paget’s disease of the bone is a disorder in which the replacement of old bone cells by new bone cells is disrupted and dysregulated.
Alendronic Acid contains Alendronic acid, which promotes bone integrity by regulating bone cell turnover and preventing bone cell destruction by suppressing the activity of osteoclasts. Alendronic Acid strengthens bones, thereby reducing the risk of fractures.
Take Alendronic Acid as prescribed. In some cases, Alendronic Acid may cause side effects such as muscle or joint pain, nausea, indigestion, gas and headache. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if these side effects persist or worsen.
It is advisable to inform the doctor if you are allergic to any of its components. Keep your doctor informed if you suffer from any oesophageal disorders, jaw problems, peptic ulcer disease, kidney disease, low blood calcium, low Vitamin D, if you are a smoker or have had a history of smoking, or if you have been immobilised for some time and are unable to sit upright. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Uses of Alendronic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
Alendronic Acid contains Alendronic acid, a bisphosphonate used to treat osteoporosis. It is used primarily to strengthen bones, joints, muscles and in the treatment of bone disease. Alendronic Acid works by preventing bone destruction and resorption, thereby retaining the normal density of bones. It slows down the activity of bone-destroying cells (osteoclasts), which tend to be in overdrive in case of bone diseases such as osteoporosis and Paget’s. Hence, Alendronic Acid is useful in strengthening and restoring the integrity and health of weak bones.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Alendronic Acid
- Muscle or joint pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Gas
- Headache
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a state in which the bones become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures. It is often brought about by disease and age (menopausal osteoporosis). In osteoporosis, the activity of bone-destroying cells surpasses the activity of bone-forming cells. Most people do not suffer from any symptoms until there’s a fracture and bones literally start to break.
Paget’s Disease of the Bone: Paget’s disease is a disorder in which bone remodelling and the equilibrium between bone-forming and bone-destroying cells is disrupted, causing more bone cells to be destroyed than it is produced. It is also called osteitis deformans because it may produce bone deformities. Paget’s disease may be silent and produce no symptoms, or it may cause deformity, pain, swelling and fractures in the affected area.
FAQs
Alendronic Acid works by maintaining bone density. It helps in supporting bones and joints by inhibiting bone-destroying cells from being overactive.
Please see an orthopaedic doctor if you have had a fracture. Alendronic Acid is used in the case of osteoporosis and has limited use in the direct treatment of fractures as a fracture is more of surgical concern.
It usually takes one month for Alendronic Acid to start working. However, full benefits may take six months to one year to show.
Alendronic Acid can be taken with other medicines if prescribed by the doctor. However, maintaining a gap of 30minutes between Alendronic Acid and other medicines is advised.
Consult your doctor before taking NSAID's/pain killer medicines along with Alendronic Acid.
Alendronic Acid may cause osteonecrosis of the jaw. It is a bone disease in which there is a loss of blood to the bone. Maintain good oral hygiene, and have a regular dental check-up throughout the treatment with Alendronic Acid. Consult your dentist if you experience any problems such as loose teeth, swelling, or pain.
