Medication module

alendronate

Fosamax · Tablet (mucous membrane irritant)

Fosamax is on the ISMP “Do Not Crush” list as a mucous membrane irritant. FDA labeling warns of severe esophageal reactions and potential oropharyngeal ulceration, instructing patients not to chew or suck the tablet and to swallow it with a full glass of plain water while staying upright.

Ask the pharmacist about the FDA-approved alendronate oral solution or other osteoporosis treatments that do not require swallowing a tablet.