Fosamax Plus D

alendronate and cholecalciferol

Fosamax Plus D is in a group of medicines called bisphosphonates that work by altering the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in the body to increase bone mass, which may prevent bone fracture.

Some side effects are associated with Fosamax Plus D, including:

• mild heartburn
• nausea
• upset stomach upset
• diarrhea
• gas
• constipation
• mild joint or back pain
• headache

If a patient experiences any of the following serious side effects, a doctor should be called:

• chest pain
• difficulty or pain when swallowing
• pain or burning under the ribs or in the back
• new or worsening heartburn
• severe joint, bone, or muscle pain
• jaw pain, numbness, or swelling

On October 1, 2007, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released its conclusion from a review of bisphosphonate drugs, including Fosamax Plus D. Despite a New England Journal of Medicine article published in May 2007 that raised safety concerns about the drugs, the FDA said doctors and patients should continue using them.