Side effects of alendronic acid

These common side effects of alendronic acid happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Try to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronic acid. It might also help to eat smaller meals more often. You could also try eating and drinking more slowly, and increase your level of exercise if you can.

Make sure you follow the instructions for taking alendronic acid carefully.

If the symptoms do not go away or get worse, contact your doctor straight away.

Eat more high-fibre foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals. Try to drink several glasses of water or squash every day. If you can, try to increase your level of exercise. If this does not help, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Speak to a pharmacist if you have signs of dehydration, such as peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

Do not take any medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take the combined contraceptive pill or the progestogen-only pill and you have severe, watery diarrhoea or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Stop what you're doing, and sit or lie down until you feel better. If you've just taken alendronic acid try to avoid lying down for 30 minutes.

Do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery until your dizziness has gone.

It's best not to drink alcohol until you see how the medicine affects you.

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Try not to drink too much alcohol.

Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller, and talk to your doctor if the pain does not go away or is severe.

Try to rest. Avoid standing for long periods of time if you have swollen legs, and put your feet on a stool or cushion to raise your legs when you're sitting.

Talk to your doctor if the swelling is severe or does not go away.

Do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery if you're feeling tired. Try not to drink any alcohol, as this will make you feel more tired.

Thinning hair or mild hair loss in itself can be stressful but it's not usually a sign of anything to worry about. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you're concerned.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and these side effects bother you or do not go away.