Fosamax Administration: Wait at Least 30 Minutes Before Eating
You must wait at least 30 minutes after taking Fosamax (alendronate) before eating any food or drinking any beverage other than plain water. 1
Critical Administration Instructions
Take Fosamax correctly to prevent serious esophageal complications:
- Take the tablet immediately after getting up for the day, before consuming any food, drink, or other medication 1
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass (6-8 oz) of plain water only—never with mineral water, coffee, tea, soda, or juice 1
- Do not chew or suck on the tablet 1
- Remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after swallowing the tablet 2, 1
- Do not lie down until after you have eaten your first food of the day 1
Why the 30-Minute Wait Matters
Fosamax is poorly absorbed and requires strict fasting conditions:
- Oral bisphosphonates have bioavailability of less than 1% under optimal conditions 3
- Food or beverages (other than plain water) create complexes with alendronate that cannot be absorbed, rendering the medication ineffective 3
- Taking the medication incorrectly can lead to esophageal irritation, esophagitis, and esophageal ulceration 2, 4
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Approximately 1% of patients develop chemical esophagitis from alendronate, but the vast majority of these cases occur when the tablet is taken incorrectly 4:
- Never take the tablet at bedtime or before rising for the day 1
- Never take it with coffee, juice, or other beverages as your morning routine 1
- Never lie down within 30 minutes of taking the medication 2, 1
- Never take antacids, calcium supplements, or other medications during the 30-minute waiting period 1
Dosing Schedule Options
Weekly dosing (70 mg once weekly):
- Choose one day of the week that fits your schedule 1
- Take the tablet on the same day each week after getting up and before any food or drink 1
Daily dosing (5-10 mg once daily):
- Take one tablet every morning following the same fasting and upright requirements 1