How does alendronic acid work?
Alendronic acid slows the rate that bone is broken down in your body. This helps with bone density and reduces your risk of a broken bone.
How long does it take to work?
It takes several months for alendronic acid to work. Usually there is an increase in bone mineral density 6 to 12 months after starting it.
You may still have a fracture while taking alendronic acid, as it does not totally reduce the risk. You'll usually need to take it for some years to see the full effect.
How long do the effects last after I stop taking it?
If you have taken alendonic acid for a number of years, once you stop taking it, the effects of the medicine will gradually wear off. Your bones may continue to benefit for 2 to 3 years afterwards.
Your doctor will review how long you should stay on alendronic acid for and whether you should stop treatment completely or for a year or two (treatment pause).
The effects of alendronic acid last for as long as you take the medicine.
Are there any long-term side effects?
You'll usually have to take alendronic acid for at least 3 to 5 years. This is because it takes time for your bones to become stronger. You're less likely to break a bone while you're taking it.
In a very small number of people, taking alendronic acid for more than 2 years can increase their chances of getting a rare type of bone damage in their inner ear and certain types of breaks to their thigh bones.
For this reason, your doctor will look at the benefits and risks of your treatment after 3 to 5 years and decide whether you should keep taking alendronic acid. This may involve some tests to check the strength (density) of your bones.
The benefits of taking alendronic acid generally outweigh the risks. If you're concerned or have any questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
What happens if I stop taking it?
By not taking alendronic acid, you're more likely to break a bone. Broken bones are painful and can have serious consequences. If you do not want to take alendronic acid, speak to a doctor before stopping taking it.
What can I do to keep my teeth healthy while taking it?
Taking alendronic acid can sometimes affect your jawbone, so it's important to take good care of your teeth while you're taking it.
It's a good idea to:
- keep your teeth clean and have a dental check-up every 6 months – your doctor may also recommend a dental check-up before you start your treatment
- contact your doctor or dentist if you have any problems with your mouth or teeth, such as pain, swelling or loose teeth
What happens if I need dental treatment?
If you're having dental implants or having a tooth out while taking alendronic acid, there's a very small chance of damage to your jawbone.
Tell your dentist you're taking alendronic acid. They may recommend a different type of dental treatment.
Will taking alendronic acid affect my arthritis?
Some types of arthritis and arthritis medicines can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. Taking alendronic acid reduces this risk.
If you have arthritis and your doctor prescribes alendronic acid, let them know if the pain or swelling in your joints gets worse when you start taking this medicine.
Will it affect my contraception?
Alendronic acid does not affect any type of contraception including the combined contraceptive pill or emergency contraception.
However, if alendronic acid makes you have severe, watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
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Can I drive or ride a bike?
Alendronic acid may make you feel dizzy. It can also cause blurred vision, and bone, muscle or joint pain.
If this happens to you, do not drive, cycle or use any machinery or tools until the effects have worn off.
It's an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It's your responsibility to decide if it's safe to drive. If you're in any doubt, do not drive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's safe for you to drive while taking alendronic acid. GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.
Can I drink alcohol while taking alendronic acid?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking alendronic acid. However, drinking a lot of alcohol affects the strength of your bones and can increase your risk of breaks (fractures).
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
Do not take your medicine with mineral water (still or sparkling), tea or coffee, juice or milk. Taking it with any of these can affect how your medicine works. If it's not safe to drink your tap water for any reason, you can boil it and let it cool before drinking it.
After taking your medicine, wait for 30 minutes. You can then eat and drink normally.
Can lifestyle changes help with bone health?
You can help keep your bones healthy by:
- eating food for healthy bones, such as milk and cheese, broccoli and other foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D
- spending more time in the sunlight to help you to make more vitamin D
- stopping smoking – smoking harms your bones
- cutting down on alcohol – try not to drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week
- exercising more – walking and low-impact aerobics are good for your bones, and so are strength-training exercises where you use your own body weight