Alendronate Sodium

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Sep 07, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Alendronate


Is alendronate taken daily?

The usual dose of alendronate for osteoporosis treatment is 10 mg daily or 70 mg weekly.



What is the best time to take alendronate?

The best time to take alendronate is first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, before you eat or drink anything. Never take alendronate at bedtime or while you are still in bed in the morning. Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking your alendronate dose. This is important to prevent esophageal irritation.



How long do you have to stay on alendronate for osteoporosis?

Most people have to stay on alendronate for at least 3-5 years to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Your healthcare provider will measure bone mineral density from time to time and decide if you need to continue alendronate therapy.



Should I take calcium supplements with alendronate?

Calcium is good for bone health, and most people take calcium supplements during alendronate treatment. However, your doctor will tell you whether or not you need calcium supplementation. Keep in mind that you should not take any supplement, including calcium and vitamin D, at the same time as your alendronate dose. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate before you take any other medications or supplements.



What if I miss my weekly dose of alendronate?

You should take weekly Fosamax (alendronate) on the same day of the week every week. If you’ve already eaten something in the morning and then remember a missed dose of alendronate, wait until the next morning to take your dose and then go back to your usual dosing regimen. Never take more than one dose of alendronate in 24 hours.



What is the price of alendronate without insurance?

Without insurance, alendronate can be as high as $169.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $12.82 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of alendronate with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on alendronate—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for alendronate. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.