Patient/Family Teaching

Instruct patient on the importance of taking exactly as directed, first thing in the morning, 30 min before other medications, beverages, or food. Waiting longer than 30 min will improve absorption. Alendronate should be taken with 6–8 oz plain water (mineral water, orange juice, coffee, and other beverages decrease absorption). If a dose is missed, skip dose and resume the next morning; do not double doses or take later in the day. If a weekly dose is missed, take the morning after remembered and resume the following week on the chosen day. Do not take 2 tablets on the same day. Do not discontinue without consulting health care professional

» Caution patient to remain upright for 30 min following dose to facilitate passage to stomach and minimize risk of esophageal irritation. Advise patient to discontinue alendronate and notify health care provider if pain or difficulty swallowing, retrosternal pain, or new/worsening heartburn occur

» Advise patient to eat a balanced diet and consult health care professional about the need for supplemental calcium and vitamin D

» Encourage patient to participate in regular exercise and to modify behaviors that increase the risk of osteoporosis (stop smoking, reduce alcohol consumption)

» Advise patient to inform health care professional of alendronate therapy prior to dental surgery

» Caution patient to use sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent photosensitivity reactions

» Advise patient to notify health care professional if blurred vision, eye pain or inflammation occur

» Advise female patient to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if she is breastfeeding

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