Fosamax Side Effects (Cont.)

Serious Fosamax Side Effects

Some Fosamax side effects, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Throat pain, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing (which may be signs of ulcers of the esophagus)
  • Severe heartburn or heartburn that does not go away
  • Severe bone, muscle, or joint pain
  • Jaw or tooth problems
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, and unexplained swelling.
     

How to Minimize Fosamax Side Effects on the Esophagus

In order to reduce the chances of developing serious esophageal-related side effects, you should follow the prescribed directions on how to take Fosamax. For example:
 
  • The medication 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 Fosamax, be sure to follow the dose with at least a quarter of a cup of water.
     
  • For at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax, 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 at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking. This includes mineral water, sparkling water, coffee, tea, milk, or juice. Plain water is okay.
    • Avoid taking any other oral medicine, including calcium supplements.
 

Final Thoughts on Fosamax Side Effects

You may experience some or none of the Fosamax side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, there is no way for your healthcare provider to know beforehand if you will have side effects from a medicine that you have never tried. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking the drug or if something "just does not seem right." While it may not be a side effect of Fosamax, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;