What should patients do after taking Alendronate?

After taking Alendronate, it is important for patients to remain upright and not lie down for at least thirty minutes. This precaution helps to prevent esophageal irritation and ensures that the medication is properly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Alendronate, used primarily to treat osteoporosis, can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including esophagitis, if the patient lies down immediately after ingestion. By staying upright, patients can minimize the risk of these potentially harmful side effects.

This practice is particularly crucial because lying down can promote reflux or allow the medication to linger in the esophagus, leading to irritation. Therefore, maintaining an upright position for a period after taking the medication supports both the effectiveness of the drug and the patient's comfort and safety.