Alendronate 70 mg: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Prescription required (Schedule H)
Common uses: Osteoporosis in women after menopause – to strengthen bones and reduce fractures of the hip and spine; Osteoporosis in men.
Listed MRPs range from ₹4.69 to ₹88.67 per tablet across 6 listings. Use only on a doctor's prescription.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / tablet | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alendronate Sodium Tablets USP 70mgJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 4 | ₹18.75 | ₹4.69 | 19 October 2026 |
| Denfos 70 | Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd | 4 | ₹94.22 | ₹23.55 | 19 October 2026 |
| Alenost 70 | Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 4 | ₹100.83 | ₹25.21 | 19 October 2026 |
| Restofos 70 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd | 4 | ₹144.38 | ₹36.09 | 19 October 2026 |
| Bifosa 70 | Troikaa Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 4 | ₹182.80 | ₹45.70 | 19 October 2026 |
| Osteofos 70 | Cipla Ltd | 4 | ₹354.66 | ₹88.67 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Osteoporosis in women after menopause – to strengthen bones and reduce fractures of the hip and spine.
- Osteoporosis in men.
- Bone loss caused by long-term steroid tablets.
- Paget's disease of bone.
How to take it
Take one 70 mg tablet once a week, on the same day each week, first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Swallow it whole with a full glass of plain water (not tea, coffee, milk, juice or mineral water) while sitting or standing upright. Then stay upright – do not lie down – and do not eat, drink or take any other medicine, calcium or antacid for at least 30 minutes. Do not chew or suck the tablet. Your doctor will usually also prescribe calcium and vitamin D and review after a few years whether you still need it. Get a dental check-up before starting and tell your dentist you take it.
Side effects
Common
- Heartburn, indigestion, stomach pain.
- Constipation or diarrhoea, bloating.
- Bone, muscle or joint aches.
- Headache.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Pain or difficulty on swallowing, chest pain, new or worsening heartburn – the tablet may have damaged the food pipe; stop and see a doctor.
- Jaw pain, loose teeth or a non-healing wound in the mouth (osteonecrosis of the jaw).
- Unusual thigh, hip or groin pain – rare stress fracture of the thigh bone.
- Severe allergic reaction, eye pain or red eye.
Safety information
Alcohol
Alcohol does not interact directly, but heavy drinking weakens bones and irritates the food pipe. Keep it low.
Pregnancy
Not used in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Alendronate stays in bone for years, so tell your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy.
Kidney problems
Not recommended if kidney function is poor (creatinine clearance below about 35 mL/min). Your doctor will check.
Liver problems
No dose change is usually needed; tell your doctor about liver disease.
Children
Not for children unless a paediatric bone specialist prescribes it.
Missed dose
If you miss your weekly tablet, take it the next morning you remember, then go back to your usual weekly day. Never take two tablets on the same day.
Interactions
- Calcium, iron, magnesium, antacids and multivitamins – block absorption; take them at least 30 minutes after alendronate, preferably later in the day.
- Painkillers like ibuprofen, diclofenac and aspirin – add to stomach and food-pipe irritation.
- Steroid tablets (prednisolone) – more bone loss and stomach irritation; your doctor balances this.
- Acid-reducing medicines (pantoprazole, ranitidine) – may slightly change absorption; keep the 30-minute gap.
Frequently asked questions
How should I take Osteofos 70?
Once a week, first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, with a full glass of plain water. Stay upright and do not eat, drink or take other medicines for at least 30 minutes afterwards.
Why can't I lie down after Osteofos 70?
If the tablet sits in the food pipe it can cause painful ulcers. Standing or sitting upright with plenty of water helps it reach the stomach quickly.
Can I take Osteofos 70 with milk or tea?
No. Milk, tea, coffee, juice and even mineral water reduce absorption to almost nothing. Only plain water, and wait 30 minutes before breakfast.
What if I forget my weekly Osteofos dose?
Take it the next morning you remember, then return to your usual day. Never take two tablets on the same day.
How long do I need to take alendronate 70?
Usually for 3 to 5 years, after which your doctor reviews bone density and may pause it. Do not stop or continue indefinitely without a review.
Can I take calcium with Osteofos 70?
Yes, calcium and vitamin D are usually needed, but take them at a different time – at least 30 minutes after alendronate, ideally with a meal later in the day.
Does Osteofos 70 affect the teeth or jaw?
Rarely, bisphosphonates can cause poor healing of the jaw bone after tooth extractions. Get a dental check before starting and tell your dentist you take it.
Is alendronate safe if I have kidney disease?
It is not recommended when kidney function is significantly reduced. Your doctor will check a creatinine test before prescribing.
Sources
- MedlinePlus – Alendronate (19 October 2026)
- NHS – Alendronic acid (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms