Fosamax Plus D Side Effects

Diarrhea, headaches, and constipation are some of the most common Fosamax Plus D side effects. Jaw or tooth problems, severe heartburn, and difficulty swallowing (which is a sign of esophageal problems) are less common, but more serious, side effects. To help minimize side effects of Fosamax Plus D on the esophagus, take the drug on an empty stomach and swallow the tablets whole.

 

Fosamax Plus D Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Fosamax Plus D™ (alendronate and cholecalciferol); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Fosamax Plus D. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Fosamax Plus D side effects with you.)
 

Common Fosamax Plus D Side Effects

Most of the information known about Fosamax Plus D side effects comes from studies of Fosamax (without the vitamin D). Fosamax 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 Fosamax 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.
     
Studies have shown that Fosamax Plus D usually has similar side effects, compared with just Fosamax (without the vitamin D).
 
(Fosamax Plus D Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;