Facing Fosamax Overdose

The biphosphonate drug called Fosamax is known generically as alendronate sodium strengthens the bone and is usually given to treat osteoporosis. Yet this drug is now sharing the limelight with Fosamax Plus D because of increasing reports of atypical type of femoral fracture from its long-term customers. This issue has mostly affected people with bone disorders such as Paget’s Disease and osteoporosis. On the other hand, it has alos been found out that diabetics can also be affectedby Fosamax.

The depths associated with Fosamax and diabetes are now being probed through research. It cannot be denied that Fosamax has very good side effects despite these issues. However, as it goes with any medication, this can also bring out adverse effects especially on the gastrointestinal tract. We should also be careful about Fosamax overdose.

Depending on the amount taken as well as contributing factors such as other medications and substances, the impact of Fosamax overdose may differ. Furthermore, the most common manifestations of the Fosamax overdose are as follows:

· Heartburn or indigestion
· Low level of calcium (hypocalcemia) or phosphate (hypophosphatemia) in the blood

· Sores in the esophagus, stomach or, intestine

The treatment to manage Fosamax overdose will also vary. However, induced vomiting should not be done because the drug itself can be irritating to the digestive tract especially the esophagus. Although you may be able to restrict the drug from getting into the bloodstream by drinking milk or taking antacids (drugs that stabilizes stomach acidity.)

Moreover, the symptoms of overdose may be treated by applying supportive measures. These supportive treatment options may include:

· Watchful checking of the heart rate, blood pressure and respiration or breathing

· Fluid replacement therapy through an intravenous (IV) line

· Intravenous calcium therapy to correct hypocalcemia

· Other treatments depending on the symptoms manifested

If ever Fosamax overdose happens, it is important that affected individuals should seek medical attention immediately.

It is important that they strictly adhere to the doctor’s order when taking your Fosamax therapy. Skipping a dose and waiting for the next schedule the next morning must be remembered when a missed daily dose happens. If ever a weekly dosed was missed, take the medication the next morning after they remembered about their therapy and just resume with their usual schedule for the next dose. It is advisable that they should never double their dose.

An overdose is a serious consequence, as were most Fosamax complaints or side effects. The bad health effects that one will experience can never be justified by a Fosamax lawsuit. Prevention must be remembered.

References:
http://www.theprovince.com/health/another+reason+avoid+diabetes/5598894/story.html