Why is this medication prescribed?

Binosto is prescribed primarily for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones, making them more susceptible to fractures and breaks. It occurs when the body loses too much bone or makes too little bone, or both.

Binosto contains the active ingredient alendronate, which belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates. Alendronate works by slowing down the breakdown of bone in the body, thus helping to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis due to the decrease in estrogen levels after menopause, which accelerates bone loss. Binosto, along with lifestyle changes such as diet modification, exercise, and supplementation with calcium and vitamin D, can help manage osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures in this population.

How should this medicine be used?

Binosto is used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It comes in the form of effervescent tablets, which are dissolved in water and then taken orally. Here’s how Binosto should be used:

• Choose a Day: Select a day of the week that works best for you to take Binosto, and stick to that day consistently.
• Timing: Take Binosto on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before your first food, drink, or other medication of the day. This helps ensure proper absorption.
• Prepare the Solution: Dissolve one Binosto effervescent tablet in half a glass (4 ounces or 120 milliliters) of plain water at room temperature. Do not use hot or mineral water.
• Dissolve the Tablet: Stir the mixture for about 10 seconds until the tablet is completely dissolved. It’s normal for the solution to fizz during this process.
• Consume Immediately: Once the tablet is fully dissolved, drink the entire solution immediately. Do not save it for later use.
• Remain Upright: After drinking the solution, do not lie down or recline for at least 30 minutes to avoid irritation to your esophagus.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 ounces) after taking Binosto to help ensure the tablet is fully swallowed and to prevent any potential irritation to the esophagus.
• Continue Treatment: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and frequency of Binosto. It’s typically taken once a week.

Remember to take Binosto exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dosage or frequency without consulting your doctor. It’s also important to continue with a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, as well as regular weight-bearing exercise, as part of your osteoporosis treatment plan.

Other uses for this medicine

Binosto (alendronate) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. However, it may also be used in other conditions under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Some off-label uses of Binosto may include the treatment of osteoporosis in men, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, and Paget’s disease of bone. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding the appropriate use of Binosto for your specific condition.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Binosto, it’s important to follow certain precautions to ensure its safe and effective use:

• Take on an Empty Stomach: Binosto should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before your first meal, drink, or other medications of the day. Food, beverages, and other medications can interfere with the absorption of alendronate.
• Stay Upright: After taking Binosto, remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes to help prevent irritation to the esophagus and reduce the risk of reflux.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink a full glass of plain water (6 to 8 ounces) after taking Binosto to ensure the tablet is fully swallowed and to help prevent irritation to the esophagus.
• Avoid Certain Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies. Some medications, such as antacids, calcium supplements, and certain medications for heartburn or indigestion, may interfere with the absorption of alendronate and should be avoided or taken at least 30 minutes after Binosto.
• Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation: Ensure an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D through diet or supplements as recommended by your doctor. These nutrients are essential for bone health and can complement the effects of Binosto.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your bone density and bone turnover markers to assess the effectiveness of Binosto treatment and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Report Side Effects: Be vigilant for any side effects or adverse reactions while taking Binosto and report them to your healthcare provider promptly. Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, and heartburn.
• Dental Precautions: Inform your dentist that you are taking Binosto before undergoing any dental procedures. Bisphosphonates have been associated with a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), particularly in patients undergoing dental surgery or procedures. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are recommended while taking Binosto.
• Bone Fracture Risk: While Binosto helps increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures, it may not completely eliminate the risk. Take precautions to prevent falls and minimize the risk of fractures, such as maintaining a safe home environment, using assistive devices if needed, and participating in regular exercise to improve strength and balance.

Always follow your doctor’s advice and recommendations regarding the use of Binosto, and inform them of any changes in your health status or any new medications you may be taking.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with taking Binosto. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Foods high in calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fortified cereals, and canned fish with bones. Vitamin D sources include fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified dairy products, and sunlight exposure. Your healthcare provider may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements if your dietary intake is inadequate.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Binosto, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. However, if you don’t remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses on the same day to make up for a missed dose. It’s important to maintain consistency with your dosing schedule to maximize the effectiveness of Binosto.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Binosto (alendronate), like any medication, can cause side effects. While not everyone experiences these side effects, it’s essential to be aware of them. Common side effects of Binosto may include:

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: These can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, or flatulence.
• Esophageal Irritation: Binosto can sometimes cause irritation or inflammation of the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or chest pain.
• Musculoskeletal Pain: Some people may experience bone, joint, or muscle pain while taking Binosto.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect of alendronate.
• Dizziness or Vertigo: Some individuals may feel dizzy or experience vertigo while taking Binosto.
• Skin Reactions: Rarely, Binosto may cause skin reactions such as rash or itching.
• Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ): Although rare, bisphosphonates like alendronate have been associated with ONJ, a condition characterized by bone death in the jaw. Symptoms may include jaw pain, swelling, numbness, loose teeth, or gum infections.
• Atypical Femur Fractures: Long-term use of bisphosphonates like Binosto has been associated with an increased risk of atypical fractures of the thigh bone (femur).
• Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, people may experience allergic reactions to alendronate, characterized by symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or tightness in the chest.

It’s essential to report any side effects you experience while taking Binosto to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help determine whether the side effect is related to the medication and provide guidance on how to manage it. In some cases, your doctor may recommend adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication. If you experience severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Binosto, here are some important points to keep in mind:

Storage:

• Store Binosto tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the tablets in their original blister package until ready to use.
• Store Binosto out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze Binosto tablets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of Binosto tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines for medication disposal.
• Do not flush Binosto tablets down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose of Binosto, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or esophageal irritation.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including dentists) that you are taking Binosto, as it may affect certain medical procedures and treatments.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Binosto treatment and assess any potential side effects.
• Be aware of any signs or symptoms of adverse reactions, and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Do not share Binosto with others, as it is prescribed specifically for your condition.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding dosing, timing, and administration of Binosto.
• Continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to support bone health.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Binosto or your treatment plan, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

By following these guidelines and being aware of important information about Binosto, you can ensure safe and effective use of the medication as part of your osteoporosis treatment plan.