Fosamax Drug Interactions
Taking Fosamax with other drugs can potentially lead to unwanted drug interactions. Most of these drugs affect the metabolism of Fosamax which can either make Fosamax less effective or increase the risk of side effects. It important to know the drugs that can potentially interact with Fosamax.
Serious Interactions
Although many medications are thought to have potential side effects when taken with Fosamax, only Exjade, or deferasirox, is thought to have a potentially serious interaction. This is because a combination of these two medications can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding that is associated with the consumption of deferasirox. Fatal gastrointestinal hemorrhages have been reported, and this is especially true for elderly patients with low platelet counts or advanced hematologic malignancies. Additionally, ulcers, hemorrhage, and non-fatal upper gastrointestinal irritation has been reported by people who have taken a combination of these medications.
Calcium Products and Antacids
Taking Fosamax together with calcium and antacids affects the absorption of Fosamax. These substances bind to Fosamax in the stomach, preventing its absorption and making it less effective. Take note, however, that calcium is usually part of the treatment program for patients with osteoporosis. Patients should delay taking calcium supplements and antacids for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax.
Aspirin and Aspirin-Containing Products
Concurrent use of aspirin and Fosamax increases the risk for upper gastrointestinal irritation. Do not take these medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Patients should delay taking aspirin for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not contraindicated, these drugs should be used with caution. NSAIDs and Fosamax are both associated with gastrointestinal irritation hence require close monitoring. Patients must wait at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax before taking NSAIDs.
Some of the commonly used NSAIDs include celebrex (Celecoxib), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Motrin), ketoprofen (Orudis), naproxen (Naprosyn). There are also a lot of other drug combinations that contain NSAIDs.
Iron Supplements and Magnesium Products
Both of these nutritional supplements bind with Fosamax in the stomach which can affect the metabolism and absorption of the medication in body. This makes Fosamax less effective. Usually, healthcare providers recommend holding off taking these substances until after 30 minutes of taking Fosamax.
Teriparatide
Studies suggest that Fosamax can reduce the desired pharmacologic effect of teripartide, making it less effective. Discuss with your healthcare provider potential interactions before taking these medications together.
Any kind of food and beverages (except water) can affect the metabolism and absorption of Fosamax, especially when taken immediately after the medications. Poor absorption of the drug makes it less effective. In order to achieve the maximal effect of Fosamax, it should be taken first thing in the morning with a full glass of plain water. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes afterwards.
Before starting your Fosamax treatment, be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any of these drugs. However, this drug information does not provide all the medications that can potentially interact with Fosamax. Discuss with your healthcare provider or pharmacist the drugs (including prescription and non-prescription medications) that you normally take. Furthermore, do not take any other drugs without consulting your healthcare provider.
