Common Side Effects of Alendronate
Alendronate has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
In these studies, the most common side effects of alendronate included:
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- in up to 6.6 percent of people
- Bone, muscle, or joint pain -- up to 6 percent
- Indigestion or heartburn -- up to 3.4 percent
- Constipation -- up to 3.1 percent
- Diarrhea -- up to 3.1 percent
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) -- up to 2.8 percent
- Gas -- up to 2.6 percent
- Headaches -- up to 2.6 percent.
How to Minimize Side Effects of Alendronate on the Esophagus
In order to reduce the chance of developing serious esophageal-related side effects, you should follow the prescribed directions on how to take alendronate. For example:
- Alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach and with a full glass of water first thing in the morning.
- Swallow the tablets whole. Do not suck or chew on them. If you are taking the liquid form of alendronate, be sure to follow the dose with at least a quarter of a cup of water.
- For at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate, it is important to:
- Remain in an upright position (sitting up or standing). In fact, you should remain upright until you have had something to eat.
- Wait to eat or drink. This includes mineral water, sparkling water, coffee, tea, milk, or juice. Plain water is okay.
- Avoid taking any other oral medicine, including calcium supplements.
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