Fosamax is effective only when each Fosamax tablet is taken with a full glass of plain water first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or other medication. If you can wait longer before eating or drinking, Fosamax medication will be absorbed well. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax and avoid chewing or sucking on the Fosamax tablet; it can cause mouth sores.

You should take calcium and vitamin D supplements if you don't get enough in your diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Weight-bearing exercise can also strengthen bones.

Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

The usual Fosamax dose is one 10-milligram Fosamax tablet once a day or one 70-milligram Fosamax tablet once a week. Treatment continues for years.

Prevention Of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

The usual Fosamax dosage is one 5-milligram Fosamax tablet once a day or one 35-milligram Fosamax tablet once a week.

Osteoporosis In Men

The usual Fosamax dosage is one 10-milligram Fosamax tablet once a day or one 70-milligram Fosamax tablet once a week.

Steroid-Induced Osteoporosis

The usual dose of Fosamax is one 5-milligram Fosamax tablet once a day, except for postmenopausal women not taking estrogen, who should take one 10-milligram Fosamax tablet once daily.

Paget's Disease

The usual Fosamax dose is 40 milligrams once a day for 6 months.

Fosamax Overdose: Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Fosamax, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of Fosamax overdose may include: Heartburn, inflammation of the esophagus or stomach, ulcer, upset stomach.

If you miss a Fosamax dose: If you are taking Fosamax on a daily basis, do not take a missed Fosamax dose later in the day, instead, skip it and go back to your regular Fosamax medication schedule the next morning.

If you are taking Fosamax once a week, take 1 tablet the morning after you remember, then return to your original once-weekly Fosamax schedule on the chosen day. Do not take 2 Fosamax tablets on the same day.

Fosamax Storage Instructions: Keep the container tightly closed, avoid moisture and store at room temperature.

Fosamax Preparations: Tablets available in 5 mg (daily), 10 mg (daily), 35 mg (daily), 70 mg (weekly)