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Home > Drug Category > Osteoporosis Medications > Binosto and Equivalent

Binosto (Alendronate Sodium Trihydrate)

Binosto (Alendronate Sodium Trihydrate) is a bisphosphonate used in the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It helps to reduce the risk of sustaining dangerous and debilitating fractures such as vertebral and hip fractures. It may also be used to increase bone mass in men who have osteoporosis.

Binosto works by selectively slowing down the body's natural bone-removal process to help bones stay thicker and stronger. Inside the body, specialized cells called osteoclasts constantly break down old bone tissue. The active ingredient in the medication, alendronate, attaches itself directly to the mineral surface of the bones.

When these bone-dissolving cells attempt to break down the bone, they absorb this medication, which immediately disrupts their internal function, prevents them from secreting bone-dissolving substances, and causes them to die early. By reducing the number and activity of these cells, this medication suppresses the rapid bone loss, allowing the body's natural bone-building cells to safely maintain and restore structural density.

Binosto Side Effects

Like other medications, Binosto can cause both mild, manageable side effects and rare, serious medical complications. Some common mild side effects include abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach, bone, joint, or muscle pain, and nausea. Please contact your doctor if any of these mild side effects do not resolve or worsen.

See your doctor right away if you experience any severe side effects such as:
• Esophageal problems with symptoms such as chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or trouble or pain when you swallow;
• Jaw problems (osteonecrosis of the jaw) with symptoms such as pain in the mouth and/or jaw, swelling or sores inside the mouth, numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw, or loosening of a tooth;
• Low blood calcium, with symptoms such as spasms, twitches, or cramps in your muscles, and numbness or tingling in your fingers, toes, or around your mouth;
• Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain;
• Unusual femur fracture with symptoms such as new or unusual pain in the hip, groin, or thigh;

Also, seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, a rash, itching, hives, skin blisters, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat. Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Binosto Precautions

Do not use this medication if you have:
• Allergic reaction to alendronate, other ingredients in this medication, or any other medication;
• Difficulty swallowing or problems with your esophagus;
• Inability to stand or sit upright for at least 30 minutes;
• Low blood levels of calcium;

Also, before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Dental or jaw problems;
• Difficulty with absorption of minerals in the gut (malabsorption);
• Gastrointestinal conditions such as peptic ulcers;
• Having cancer and also undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy;
• Kidney disease;
• Other conditions that require being on a salt-restricted diet;

Taking alendronate with supplements or medications containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, or iron can impair its absorption in the gut, rendering it ineffective. You must wait at least 30 minutes after using Binosto before taking any other oral medications or supplements. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or high-dose aspirin alongside alendronate can significantly increase the risk of developing severe gastric ulcers and stomach irritation. Therefore, before using this medication, inform your doctor of any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine whether it is safe to use with alendronate.

Binosto is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is not approved for use in children. It is important to take this medication with a plain glass of water at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything. Even a small splash of milk or coffee in your stomach can completely block this medication’s absorption in the gut. After taking Binosto effervescent tablets, you must remain sitting up, standing, or walking for at least 30 minutes to prevent the risk of esophageal irritation. It is also imperative to maintain good dental hygiene and to visit your dentist regularly while taking this medication. Store this medication at room temperature and out of reach of children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Binosto?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Binosto.