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Compare Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

  • Alendronate (Fosamax)
    Calcitonin salmon
  • Alendronate (Fosamax)
    Calcitonin salmon

  • Summary of Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

    Summary for Bisphosphonate
    Prescription only

    Alendronate sodium (Fosamax) is a bisphosphonate that prevents and treats osteoporosis. It works by slowing the breakdown of bones so that the body has a chance to build up more bone; this strengthens bones and lowers the risk of fractures. Alendronate (Fosamax) is taken by mouth, either daily or weekly dosing, depending on your dose. In addition to the tablet, it's also available as an oral solution and a dissolvable tablet (brand name Binosto). Some common side effects of alendronate (Fosamax) can include stomach pain, heartburn, and bone or muscle pain.

    Summary for Calcitonin receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Calcitonin salmon is a synthetic (man-made) hormone available as a nasal spray. It's used to treat osteoporosis in women who have already gone through menopause (postmenopause). The medication is typically taken once a day by alternating between nostrils each day. Common side effects include back pain and nose symptoms, like runny nose, irritation, and bleeding. The nasal spray used to be available under the brand name Miacalcin, but now only comes as a generic version.

  • Indications of Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

    Indications for
    •Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in females
    •Treatment of osteoporosis in males
    •Paget's disease
    Indications for
    •Osteoporosis in women who have gone through menopause (postmenopause)

  • Pros and Cons of Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

    Pros and Const for Bisphosphonate
    Pros
    •Can be taken by males and females (unlike another bisphosphonate)
    •Option for daily or weekly dosing for osteoporosis
    •Taken by mouth
    •Comes as a regular tablet, oral solution, or effervescent tablet
    Cons
    •Can't lie down for 30 minutes after you take it
    •Must take on empty stomach, can't eat for 30 minutes after a dose
    •Can cause serious jaw problems and severe muscle or joint pain
    •Has many stomach-related side effects
    Pros and Const for Calcitonin receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Only need to use it once a day
    •Can store a used bottle at room temperature for about a month
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice treatment option for postmenopausal osteoporosis
    •Can lead to low calcium levels
    •Might raise the risk of certain cancers

  • Common Side Effects of Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach pain (up to 7%)
    •Muscle, bone, and joint pain (up to 4%)
    •Heartburn or indigestion (up to 4%)
    •Nausea (up to 4%)
    •Passing gas (up to 4%, more common with daily dose)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Runny nose (12%)
    •Nose irritation, dryness, redness (11%)
    •Back pain (5%)
    •Joint pain (4%)
    •Bloody nose (4%)

  • Warnings of Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Irritation and ulcers of the stomach and esophagus
    •Lower calcium levels
    •Muscle Pain
    •Jaw bone problems
    •Leg bone fractures
    •Not recommended in people with serious kidney problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reaction
    •Low calcium (hypocalcemia)
    •Nasal irritation
    •Cancer

  • Prices with our coupons for Fosamax vs. Miacalcin

    Learn more about Alendronate
    Learn more about Calcitonin salmon

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