Osteofos 70 Tablet

OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET

OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET, manufactured by Cipla Health Ltd., is a medication primarily used for the management of bone conditions.

• Name

  • Brand Name: OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET
  • Common Name: Alendronic acid (also known as Alendronate or Alendronate sodium)

• Composition Each uncoated tablet contains Sodium Alendronate IP equivalent to Alendronic Acid 70 mg.

• Uses OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of various bone disorders:

  • Osteoporosis: This includes osteoporosis in adults, particularly post-menopausal women, men, and individuals with steroid-induced bone loss. It helps to strengthen bones, increase bone density, and reduce the risk of fractures, especially in the spine and hip.
  • Paget's Disease of the Bone: A condition characterized by abnormal bone growth and remodeling, which can lead to bone pain, deformities, and fractures.

• Dosage and Administration

  • The typical dosage is one 70 mg tablet taken once a week.
  • It should be taken in the morning, at least 30 minutes before the first food, drink, or other medication of the day.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass (6-8 oz) of plain water. Do not crush, chew, or allow the tablet to dissolve in the mouth.
  • Remain in an upright position (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet and until after your first meal of the day to minimize the risk of oesophageal irritation.
  • Avoid taking with juice, milk, coffee, or tea, as these can interfere with absorption.
  • If a weekly dose is missed, take it on the morning after remembering, then return to the original schedule; do not take two doses on the same day.

• Side Effects

  • Common Side Effects: Heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, stomach pain, indigestion, and musculoskeletal (bone, muscle, or joint) pain. These are usually mild and temporary.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced): Severe allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, eyes, tongue, or throat causing wheezing or difficulty breathing), severe skin reactions (blisters or rashes), difficulty or pain while swallowing, pain behind the breastbone, new or worsened heartburn, oral problems such as tooth pain, swelling, or loosening of teeth, kidney problems, low blood calcium levels, and jaw pain or inflammation.

• Precautions

  • Contraindications: Do not take if allergic to alendronate/alendronic acid or any other ingredients. It is also contraindicated in individuals with severe kidney impairment, low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia), certain problems with the food pipe (oesophagus) that hinder swallowing, or an inability to sit or stand upright for at least 30 minutes.
  • Warnings: Use with caution in patients with severe kidney disease; dose adjustments may be required. Generally considered safe for patients with liver disease. Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Patients may require supplemental calcium and vitamin D if dietary intake is inadequate.
  • Drug Interactions: May interact with calcium supplements, antacids, hormone replacement therapy, certain cancer medications (e.g., Bevacizumab, Everolimus), Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen, and oral steroids (e.g., Dexamethasone, Prednisone).

• Storage Store OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET in a well-closed container at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

What is OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET used for?

OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET is primarily used to prevent and treat osteoporosis, a condition that causes weak and brittle bones. It is commonly prescribed for postmenopausal women, men with osteoporosis, and individuals whose osteoporosis is caused by long-term use of corticosteroids. This medication also helps in managing Paget's disease, which involves abnormal bone growth.

How does OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET work?

OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET contains Alendronic acid, a type of medicine known as a bisphosphonate. It works by attaching to the bone surface and inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue. By doing so, it helps to prevent bone loss, build bone mass and density, and stabilize the growth of new bone tissue, thereby strengthening bones and reducing the risk of fractures.

What is the usual dosage for OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET?

The typical dosage for OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET is one 70 mg tablet taken once a week. It should be taken in the morning upon waking, with a full glass of plain water, at least 30 minutes before consuming any food, beverages (including mineral water, coffee, tea, or juice), or other medications. It is crucial to remain upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet and until after your first meal of the day.

What are the possible side effects of OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET?

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, stomach pain, bloating, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, heartburn, and musculoskeletal pain. Less common but more serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions, severe skin reactions, difficulty or pain while swallowing, chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, tooth pain, swelling or loosening, jaw pain (osteonecrosis), and, rarely, thigh bone fracture. If any side effects are severe or persistent, consult your doctor immediately.

Is OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy due to limited safety information in humans and potential harmful effects observed in animal studies. Similarly, it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers as it is unknown whether the active components pass into breast milk. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET be taken with other medications?

Yes, but with precautions. Calcium supplements, antacids, and other oral medications containing multivalent cations can interfere with the absorption of OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET. Therefore, it is important to wait at least 30 minutes after taking OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET before taking any other oral medications. Caution is also advised when taking this medicine with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen, as this combination may increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal side effects.

What precautions should be taken while taking OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET?

It is vital to follow specific instructions to ensure effectiveness and minimize side effects. Take the tablet on an empty stomach with a full glass of plain water, at least 30 minutes before any food, drink, or other medicine. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it, and remain upright until after your first meal of the day. Do not crush, chew, or let the tablet dissolve in your mouth. This medicine is not suitable for individuals with problems in their food pipe or those unable to remain upright for 30 minutes. Patients with kidney impairment, low calcium levels, asthma, or dental problems should use it with caution and under medical supervision. Adequate calcium and Vitamin D intake is important, and supplements may be prescribed. Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase gastrointestinal side effects. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are also recommended.

What happens if a dose of OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET is missed?

If you miss your once-weekly dose of OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET, take it on the morning you remember. However, do not take two tablets on the same day. Simply return to your regular once-weekly dosing schedule on your chosen day.

How should OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET be stored?

OSTEOFOS 70 TABLET should be stored at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat. Keep it in a well-closed container and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use expired or damaged medicine, and dispose of unused medication properly.