Drug Interactions With Alendronate and Cholecalciferol

Medicines that may cause drug interactions with alendronate and cholecalciferol include bile acid sequestrants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and calcium products. While some interactions can decrease the effectiveness of the osteoporosis medication, others can increase your risk for side effects. To help prevent drug interactions with alendronate and cholecalciferol, tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking.

 

Drug Interactions With Alendronate and Cholecalciferol: An Overview

Alendronate and cholecalciferol (Fosamax Plus D™) can potentially interact with a number of other medications. Many interactions can make alendronate and cholecalciferol less effective, while others may increase the risk of side effects. Some of the medicines that may lead to negative alendronate and cholecalciferol interactions include:
 
  • Aspirin
  • Bile acid sequestrants, such as:
 
 
  • Calcium products, including many antacids
  • Cimetidine (Tagamet®)
  • Iron supplements
  • Magnesium products
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as:
 
 
 
 
Food and beverages (other than water) can also interact with alendronate and cholecalciferol, preventing it from being absorbed into the body and making it less effective. Alendronate and cholecalciferol should be taken with water in the morning on an empty stomach. Do not eat or drink anything (besides water) before taking the medication and for 30 minutes afterwards.
 
(Drug Interactions With Alendronate and Cholecalciferol Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;